I Was Dying Inside’ — Bovi Reveals Pain Behind His Smile Weeks After Mum’s Death

Popular Nigerian comedian Bovi has opened up about continuing to perform at events while privately dealing with painful family experiences.

The comedian recalled working through the emotional turmoil surrounding his mother’s kidnapping in 2012 and returning to the stage just weeks after her death in 2016.

Bovi shared the experience during an appearance on the Nancy Isime Show while responding to a question about whether he had ever performed at a time when he was emotionally devastated.

He recalled that his mother was kidnapped in 2012 while he was in Ilashe, Lagos, hosting an event. He received news of the incident, which occurred in Delta State, while the event was ongoing.

According to Bovi, he made several calls to find out what was happening but ultimately had to return to the event and continue entertaining guests despite his anxiety and concern for his mother.

He said that although he remained on stage and performed his duties, his thoughts were focused on the unfolding crisis.

Bovi explained that he was essentially going through the motions while the audience laughed and enjoyed his performance, even though he was emotionally absent.

His mother was eventually rescued several hours later.

The comedian also opened up about the difficult period following his mother’s death in January 2016.

He recalled that businessman and politician Ben Bruce was scheduled to celebrate his 60th birthday the following month and that he had been booked to host the event.

Bovi said he initially struggled with the decision to accept the engagement because he questioned whether returning to work so soon after his mother’s death would make him appear insensitive.

He wondered whether it was appropriate to perform when the woman who gave birth to him had recently passed away.

Despite the emotional conflict, Bovi eventually accepted the job and hosted the celebration.

He said he carried out his responsibilities on stage while privately battling intense grief, with the audience unaware of the emotional pain he was experiencing.

Bovi explained that his experience taught him how performers can sometimes hide profound personal struggles behind laughter and entertainment, allowing audiences to enjoy their performances without knowing what they may be dealing with internally.