Chude Jideonwo sits with Bayegun Oluwatoyin Arole popularly known as Woli Arole, one of Nigeria’s most recognisable comic voices, for a conversation that moves far beyond laughter. In this episode of #WithChude, Arole shared his story on the early years when he was dismissed as “too loud,” mocked for his appearance, and shamed for having nothing. He speaks about how those words cut deeply, how public ridicule can quietly breed depression, and how learning to survive the noise became part of his becoming.
What followed, however, is a story of purpose finding form. Arole opens up about the conviction that shaped his craft and how he went on to pioneer a style of prophetic comedy that inspired an entire generation of skit makers. He shares the courage it took to remain authentic in a space that often rewards conformity, and how choosing faith and consistency over approval helped him turn mockery into momentum.
The conversation softens as Arole talks about love and fatherhood. He recounts meeting his wife in Dublin and the certainty that followed from the very first encounter. He also reflects on the birth of his son and the shift it sparked in how he sees life, responsibility, and himself. For Arole, fatherhood revealed dormant strengths and a deeper sense of purpose. Honest, reflective, and disarmingly tender, this episode captures Woli Arole not just as a comedian, but as a man shaped by pain, conviction, and growth.
WATCH EPISODE: https://vimeo.com/1149402149
