In a candid revelation on The Honest Bunch Podcast with Nedu Wazobia, Kunle Ogunrombi, known by his stage name K-Peace, shared a distressing account of his experience after winning Nigerian Idol Season 5 in 2015. Despite the glitz and glamour associated with such victories, K-Peace described a stark reality of unfulfilled promises from the show’s organizers.
K-Peace, who was celebrated for his musical talent on the Etisalat-sponsored platform, claimed that he was left penniless after the show. “I came outside of the Nigerian Idol platform with zero naira in my account. As Nigerian Idol winner, I go waka all through Lagos, go for interviews without food for belle despite winning N7.5 million,” he disclosed.
The singer detailed how the promised prizes, which were announced on national television, included N7.5 million, a brand-new car, and a two-week trip to Dubai, did not materialize as expected. “They announced that I had won N7.5 million. When I asked about the prize, they said they are still branding the car,” K-Peace explained, highlighting the discrepancy between what was promised and what was delivered.
This ordeal has shed light on potential issues within the reality TV industry in Nigeria, raising questions about the accountability of show organizers and the welfare of participants post-show. K-Peace’s story is a stark reminder of the challenges that can follow the spotlight, even after achieving what is often seen as a significant career milestone.
The Nigerian Idol organizers have yet to respond to these allegations at the time of this report. The conversation around the treatment of reality TV stars post-competition continues to gain traction, with many calling for more transparency and support for winners and participants alike.