Skitmaker Shank Comics has thrown the internet into fresh debate after boldly declaring that top comedians Bovi Ugboma and Basketmouth are financially ahead of major Afrobeats stars despite their low-key lifestyles. In a streaming session that quickly went viral, Shank compared the quiet wealth of comedy giants to the flashy spending of musicians, sparking heated reactions across social media.
Shank, known for unfiltered takes during his live broadcasts, didn’t mince words when addressing the perception gap.
“I feel like comedy money is more. I can swear to God, Bovi, Basketmouth, they’re f+cking richer than Asake”
He doubled down moments later, adding,
“I swear to God, Bovi and Basketmouth are richer than Asake and Wizkid, but they don’t just like cars. All those Ferrari and rubbish Burna Boy is buying, Bovi doesn’t focus on that.”
The comedian went further to question the value of luxury vehicles, asking rhetorically,
“How much is Ferrari? How much is Lamborghini? How much is Cybertruck? Is it not just to charge it?”
Shank highlighted Bovi’s humble approach as proof.
“Bovi doesn’t just like cars. If Bovi sees a Lexus, he’s okay. All those Ferraris and high speed on the express? Bovi doesn’t care. Comedians care about their lives that’s why.”
The remarks have divided fans all over. Supporters argue that top comedians have built empires through smart business moves over decades. Critics, however, dismissed it as exaggeration, pointing to the global earnings of Afrobeats heavyweights whose tours and brand deals regularly generate millions of dollars.
Bovi Ugboma and Basketmouth (Bright Okpocha) are indeed among Nigeria’s most successful comedians. Bovi has headlined international tours and built a production company, while Basketmouth’s Opa Williams Comedy Show and international gigs have cemented his status as a pioneer. Their wealth is often described as understated compared to the visible opulence of younger Afrobeats acts.
Whether Shank’s claim holds or not, it has successfully spotlighted the often-overlooked financial power of Nigeria’s comedy veterans.