This is Why Teju Babyface Stepped Away from Comedy

Gbadewonuola Olateju Oyelakin, better known by his stage name Teju Babyface, who over one decade has registered his presence in the Nigerian entertainment space as a compere at public functions, and more importantly as a stand-up comedian. But in recent years, he has been missing at comedy shows.

Teju told the guest at the launch of his book, ‘Secrets of the Streets’ at the MUSON Centre, Onikan-Lagos, which included Professor Pat Utomi, Pastor Sam Adeyemi of Daystar Church, Basorge Tariah Jr., Julius Agwu, Azubuike Ishiekwene, Frank Edoho, Tee A, Debola Williams, Owen Gee, Lepacious Bose, Bunmi Davies and a lot of other top dignitaries, entrepreneurs, entertainers and friends who joined in the celebration that he had experienced a difficult time during which nobody knocked on his door to ask for his services as a compere or comedian.

It was during this period that an inner voice began to relay messages on life experiences to him. Many of these were directly linked to his situation. For long hours, he would ignore his food and could not sleep. All he did was write messages as they came to him. These series of communication from his inner man connected with the meaning of the song, ‘Eri Okan/Conscience’ by King Sunny Ade which has since become the signature tune for The Teju Babyface Show.

Teju Babyface said one of the biggest influence to the new life he desired was his pastor, Sam Adeyemi. Teju said he acquired as many books and audio messages as possible of pastor Sam. He read various books written by him as many times as he could. And listened to his messages again and again.

Adeyemi who was later called to launch the book listened as Teju revealed how he deliberately schemed his way to become; first, his acquaintance and later, his friend.

‘Secrets of the Streets’, points the way for Teju. Going forward, he would like to be known as an author of inspirational and motivational books and one who gives speeches that sparks something in people and moves them to positive action. The event started with photo session where guests took pictures with Teju, some got their books signed by him after which they proceeded to AGIP Hall for the commencement of the ceremony.

The book launch was compered by Oscar Oyinsan and after a brief introduction of the VIPs present, Teju was invited to talk about Secrets of the Streets’.

The stand-up comedian cum writer, Teju Babyface highlighted the key moments in his life, starting with his decision to be a comedian. He further talked about his father who disapproved him of being a comedian and how he got into trouble several times for arriving home late after performing at shows. He said, “Whenever I got home past 11 pm, I knew I was in for it. I would quietly open the gate and the door. I would try to sneak upstairs expecting my parents to be fast asleep but I was always wrong. My dad would catch me in the act and tell me to return to where I was coming from.”

Teju further explained that while he didn’t have ‘the streets’ upbringing, he learnt a lot from his friends who did. “Because I couldn’t speak pidgin, because I went to private a primary school-Corona and because I wasn’t a Niger-Deltan, some people underestimated me but here I am today, “ he remarked.

He concluded by reiterating that while he was still in the business of bringing laughter to people’s faces, he is no longer a stand-up comedian. Throughout his speech, he dropped wisecracks and anecdotes that threw the audience into fits of laughter. For instance, he made everyone believe he was going to play on the grand piano that adorned stage.

With their breath held, the audience waited to witness a display of a previously unknown talent of Teju. Alas, he struck a few keys on the piano, looked and threw up his hands. “I just payed it!” The unexpected burst of laughter continued for a few minutes before it decreased enough to allow continuation of the programme.