On November 2, 2024, Terra Kulture, Victoria Island, Lagos became the latest stage for: “The Lies They Told Us,” a rapidly-growing comedy show by Nigerian comedian, Ghweleke Akpos Stanley, with the stage name: “SimCard.”
The show had a host of seasoned comedians who thrilled the audience and stars like Righteous Man and gospel artist Buchi.
What began as a humble event on June 12, 2022 in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State just three years ago has blossomed into one of Nigeria’s most talked-about comedy nights, with each show more successful than the last.
The second show moved to Warri, Delta State, broadening its audience and setting the stage for the nation-wide acclaim it enjoys today.
Now in its third edition, the event returned with an even more exciting lineup, connecting audiences through humour and honest reflections on Nigerian life and culture.
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Headlined by comedian and show creator SimCard, known for his roles as Officer Ochuko in My Flatmates and Perez in Papa Benji, the event brought together a stellar cast of seasoned comedians and fresh talents, all eager to entertain and engage the lively crowd.
Since its inception, The Lies They Told Us has built a reputation for not just offering punchlines but for digging into the heart of Nigerian society – our stories, the myths we grew up with, and those little “lies” we’ve been told along the way.
SimCard’s vision began with a simple goal: to use humour as a mirror for society, challenging cultural norms and poking fun at the eccentricities that make Nigeria unique.
With each edition, the show has grown in scope and popularity, becoming an annual staple in Lagos’s comedy calendar.
Opening the night, Talking C set the tone with jokes that hit close to home, targeting relatable topics like the quirks of landlords and agents, tenant troubles, and Nigerian family life.
The crowd roared with laughter as he joked about children who barely know their fathers because they leave so early for work.
Following him was Wall-Zee, an emerging artist who captivated the audience with his vibrant energy, and Deomeek, whose powerful voice and smooth dance moves had everyone cheering.
But it was SimCard himself who kept the energy rolling, showcasing his unique blend of humour and insight.
He joked about everything from the challenges of learning local dialects to wild Nigerian rumours like India supposedly beating Nigeria 99-1 in a football match, a myth that always brings a mix of laughter and disbelief from audiences.
His joke about a “side chick” being the person to name Nigeria was a crowd favourite, a nod to the hilarious yet pointed fact to the history of Nigeria.
The evening’s lineup was filled with high points, especially when Aproko and Apororo took the stage.
Aproko’s rapport with the crowd was electric, his punchlines expertly crafted to keep everyone in stitches.
Then came Apororo, who boldly claims to be “the craziest” of them all, and with good reason.
His performance included a hilarious reenactment of a memorable incident in London and even had the audience singing along to Mercy Chinwo’s “Excess Love.”
At one point, Apororo and SimCard teamed up for a back-and-forth that added an extra layer of spontaneity and fun to the show.
Adding a touch of musical brilliance, Legendary Suni and Timi Dakolo graced the stage, providing interludes that brought the crowd to their feet.
Dakolo’s performances of Wish Me Well, Everything (Amen), and Iyawo Mi filled the room with warmth and emotion, creating a balanced flow between comedy and music.
The venue was perfectly lit, comfortable, and inviting, ideal for an event that aims to feel as intimate as it is entertaining.
Each year, The Lies They Told Us seems to raise the bar, evolving from a small comedy gig to one of Lagos’ most talked-about shows.
SimCard’s connection with his fellow comedians, as well as with his loyal audience, is evident in every interaction, every laugh, and every line that lands with effortless charm.
As the show closed, SimCard took the stage one last time, expressing gratitude to the crowd and to everyone who’s been part of the journey.
This comedy night has become more than just a series of performances: it’s a celebration of Nigerian humour, culture, and the shared stories that unite us all.
This year’s edition of the show was largely sponsored by Iwalewa Art Gallery.