Nigerian comedian and actress Anita Asuoha, popularly known as Real Warri Pikin, has apologised to her husband, Ikechukwu, and to Nigerians following backlash over a viral moment involving singer Timaya at the 2026 African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA).
The incident occurred on Saturday, September 12, during the AFRIMMA festival held in Dallas, Texas. Real Warri Pikin had earlier received the Best Stand-Up Comedian award at the ceremony.
A video from Timaya’s performance of his hit song “Ukwu” circulated widely online. In the clip, Real Warri Pikin joined the singer on stage after he called for a woman to come up. Timaya then lifted her off the ground as part of the routine, sparking mixed reactions on social media. Some users questioned the appropriateness of the interaction because the comedian is married.
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Addressing the controversy in an Instagram video, Real Warri Pikin explained that she had been backstage enjoying the performance when Timaya invited a woman on stage. She said she responded spontaneously, caught up in the excitement, without knowing exactly what the routine involved.
According to her account, she became uncomfortable when she realised Timaya intended to lift her. She initially resisted and pleaded with him not to proceed, but eventually went along after he asked her not to disrupt the performance.
“I take full responsibility for my actions,” she said. She apologised to her husband, noting that he was unhappy about the incident, and also apologised to Nigerians who were disappointed. She referred to some of the online critics as her “online in-laws” and pushed back against suggestions that she should leave her marriage over the moment.
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During the performance, Timaya was heard calling out her husband’s name and saying, “Ikechukwu, no vex for me oo!”
The comedian maintained that her appearance on stage was spontaneous and not pre-planned.
The moment has drawn widespread discussion online, with reactions ranging from criticism to defence of the comedian as a professional entertainer who got caught up in the vibe of the performance.
By Efunbajo Victoria
Reporter
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