Nigerian comedian Anita Asuoha, popularly known as Real Warri Pikin, has apologised to her husband and Nigerians following backlash over a viral video of her interaction with singer Timaya on stage.
The incident occurred on Saturday during the AFRIMMA festival in Dallas, Texas, where Real Warri Pikin was honoured with the ‘Best Stand-Up Comedian’ award.
Timaya was also among the Nigerian artistes who performed at the event.
In the viral footage, Real Warri Pikin joined Timaya on stage while he performed his hit song, ‘Ukwu’. The singer was later seen lifting the comedian off the ground during the performance.
The video sparked criticism on social media, with some Nigerians questioning the appropriateness of the interaction, particularly because Real Warri Pikin is married.
Responding to the backlash in an Instagram video captioned “Abeg make una nor vex”, the comedian explained that she had been backstage enjoying Timaya’s performance when he invited a woman to join him on stage.
She said she acted spontaneously without knowing what would happen next.
“Nigerians, please take it easy on me, I’m really sorry. I take full responsibility for my actions,” she said in pidgin English.
“If Timaya wanted to perform his song, ‘Ukwu’, he had to bring a woman on stage for him to carry. I was backstage vibing while he was performing when he asked a lady to come out. And you know me, when it comes to having fun, I’m always up for it. So I rushed out. I put myself in this situation.
“Then he said I should jump on him. I was shocked. I said no. If you watch the full video, you will see me begging him. I was very reluctant. He said, ‘No, you came outside. Don’t spoil my performance.’ So I did it. Please don’t be angry with me.”
“My husband is angry with me. Where do you want to put me, my online in-laws, I am in this marriage till thy kingdom come.”
Real Warri Pikin also acknowledged that her husband was unhappy about the incident.
The comedian has been married to Ikechukwu Asuoha since 2013, and they have three children.
