“Kind‑heartedness stopped me from the wrong lane,” comedian reveals
Popular Nigerian comedian Destalker (real name Oghenekowhoyan Onaibe Desmond) has made a startling and candid revelation: before embracing comedy full‑time, he attempted to venture into internet fraud — but claims he failed, essentially because he couldn’t bring himself to defraud people.
In a recent episode of the In‑house Gist podcast, the fun‑maker opened up about how a friend (now a Christian cleric) introduced him to the world of cyber scams while he was in Enugu. However, he says his moral compass proved stronger than the lure of fast money.
“Before I left Enugu, I tried internet fraud with one of my friend who is now a pastor … but I wasn’t successful at it. Then we would book night sessions at cyber café for ₦250. I couldn’t afford it then so my friend always paid for me.”
He added that while his partner in the scheme was aggressively hunting for victims online, he found himself chatting with friends and family instead — eventually falling asleep. He concluded that staying on the “wrong lane” carries hidden costs, including unnecessary expense and loss of self‑respect.
“However … there is no need for overspending when you are on the wrong lane…” he said.
From cyber‑scam attempt to stage spotlight
For Destalker, this unsuccessful detour became a defining moment. He reflected:
“It [internet fraud] was not my destiny. I can’t defraud a person because I am kind‑hearted.”
He noted that while some comedians predicted he would only grow as a side act, he proved them wrong, stating he has now surpassed some of those who doubted him and that some shows and entertainers have since faded.
His rise in comedy was far from overnight. Destalker previously revealed that before the limelight, he worked as an undertaker in Enugu, and also operated commercial motorcycling (okada) following his university graduation in Public Administration. Those experiences shaped his resilience and gave him material to fuel his stage performance.
A message to upcoming talents and peers
In his interview, Destalker used his story to send a message to aspiring comedians and entertainers. His emphasis: authenticity and integrity matter just as much as talent and hustle.
He criticised a culture of “fatherism” in the comedy industry, where senior colleagues allegedly block up‑and‑coming performers. He said he’s experienced this firsthand.
Yet he remains unbowed:
“Because of all that I went through, I have grown so confident that no one can stop me from achieving my goal.”
Broader reflections: choices, identity and destiny
Destalker’s story doesn’t just entertain—it reflects broader truths about choices, personal values and the paths people take in the fast‑changing world of Nigeria’s youth economy. From facing joblessness (even with a university degree) to navigating uncertain incomes, many young Nigerians are vulnerable to quick‑money schemes. His pivot from that moment into comedy speaks to the possibility of choosing a sustainable, dignified route.
Analysts might say his candid confession also challenges the stigma around trying and failing, and the importance of redirecting one’s path. The fact that he failed at fraud (and acknowledges it publicly) may give his comedic success an added dimension: it’s not just about jokes—it’s about redemption and self‑definition.
Looking ahead
Today, Destalker’s name is firmly established in the comedy circuit. But his past confession may become part of his brand—not as a shameful secret, but as a turning point that underscores his authenticity and resilience. For upcoming comedians, his narrative adds nuance: fame can come via unexpected detours; integrity can define not just success, but its meaning.
As he continues to perform, release content and build his presence, audiences are likely to see more of that personal journey reflected in his material—reflecting not only laughter, but lessons learned.
