6 Nigerian Kings of Comedy in the Early 2000s

There was a time when comedy didn’t need viral trends or ring lights. All it took was a VCD, a noisy generator in the background, and your whole family gathered around the TV, waiting for someone to drop a hilarious line or fall in slow motion.

If you grew up in a Nigerian home—especially one where Yoruba movies were weekend staples—you probably laughed till you cried watching these legends in action.

They weren’t just actors. They were storytellers, neighborhood icons, and mood lifters. With their exaggerated expressions, unforgettable voices, and the kind of humour that stuck in your head for days, these men defined an era of real, down-to-earth comedy.

In this post, we’re shining a light on six of the funniest Yoruba actors who owned the early 2000s—and who still live rent-free in our memories today. Let’s give these kings of comedy their flowers.

1. Baba Suwe

You didn’t just watch Baba Suwe—you waited for him to appear. Babatunde Omidina, known to the world as Baba Suwe, was the kind of comedian who could crack you up without saying a word.

With his hilarious expressions, sharp tongue, and knack for turning ordinary situations into chaotic comedy, he made movies like Iru Esin and Ebi Dapo unforgettable.

One of his most talked-about scenes? When he struggled to speak English like an “ajebo,” leaving viewers in stitches. Baba Suwe passed on in 2021, but his legacy of laughter will never fade.

2. Pa James

Ajirebi Kayode Olasehinde, better known as Pa James, was the confused but lovable father figure in Papa Ajasco.

With his exaggerated reactions, clueless facial expressions, and that classic “wahala” energy, Pa James brought a special flavor to every scene he touched.

He’s the uncle we all had—the one who never understood anything but somehow always made sense. Even today, just seeing his face brings back the sweet chaos of Saturday morning TV.

3. Opebe

If you know Opebe, then you know real comedy. Yomi King carved his name into our hearts with his hilarious body movements and slapstick humor, especially in the hit TV series Erinkeke.

Playing a disabled character, Opebe found a way to blend laughter with empathy, always reminding us that comedy could also carry heart.

In a candid interview, he once said he regretted not going to school—but honestly, his God-given talent educated an entire generation in the language of joy.

4. Saka

Before Saka became a national meme with that legendary MTN ad switch, Afeez Oyetoro had already mastered the art of “serious comedy.”

With a background in Theatre Arts and a teaching gig on the side, Saka wasn’t just funny—he was smart about it. His characters were always goofy, sometimes ridiculous, but never without meaning.

In his own words: “When you discuss serious matter in a very light way, that’s comedy.” And Saka did it like a pro.

5. Koledowo

Not many today remember Tajudeen Akanmu by name, but say “Koledowo,” and you’ll see faces light up.

He had that old-school charm—humor that didn’t need loudness or vulgarity to land. Just real, relatable content that reflected everyday life.

He was that neighbor who always had gist, the market man with one eye on you and the other on your wallet.

6. Dejo Tunfulu

Dejo Tunfulu, born Kunle Makinde Adetokunbo, was a household name for anyone who watched Yoruba comedy in the 2000s. His stammering act wasn’t just funny—it was iconic.

No one could imitate his rhythm, his timing, or the way he’d suddenly burst into chaos.

In his later years, Dejo opened up about his struggles, showing us there was more to him than just the jokes. He passed away in 2022.