Ace comedian, Atunyota Akpobome, popularly known as Ali Baba, has given reasons he didn’t charge billionaire, Aliko Dangote to perform in the wedding reception of his daughter, Fatima.
Ali Baba said he did not charge a dime for his service at the wedding because of his friendship with the richest man in Africa.
He also said he does likewise to former president, Olusegun Obasanjo because of his relationship with him.
Ali Baba, who disclosed this to the Punch, said, “Dangote is my friend and I chose to play a part in the wedding ceremony of his daughter for free.
“I have done a lot of events for him such as dinners, luncheons, award ceremonies, among other events and I was nicely paid.
“For instance, if (former President Olusegun ) Obasanjo, calls me for an event, I would handle the event for free because of my relationship with him.
“If he then offers me anything out of the abundance of his heart, I would take it. I don’t see why anybody should raise eyebrows over my decision. Other comedians were there and they did well.”
On whether he advises his younger colleagues to also perform for free at classy weddings, Ali Baba said, “It depends on the kind of relationship each individual has with him. I’m not the one to tell anybody what to charge.”