Comedian and actor Bovi Ugboma has penned a deeply personal tribute to late filmmaker Kayode Peters (KP), detailing their rocky first encounter, eventual friendship, and the impact Peters had on his career and personal life.
Bovi began by recounting his early days in Lagos, when he would spend weekends watching sitcoms like Flatmates, created and written by Peters. He noticed KP’s name in the credits and was inspired by his work. Later, he learned that Peters had humbly credited “El-Shaddai” as the executive producer instead of himself, a sign, Bovi says, of his deep gratitude to God.
Inspired, Bovi decided to create his own sitcom, Extended Family, and even avoided putting his own name as executive producer, following KP’s example. But their first interaction was less than smooth. Bovi revealed:
“I was a fan and wanted to meet him for tips. I called him and he said he was busy on set. I pressed for a lunch break meeting, but he never got back. I felt slighted and carried an artificial grudge.”
That grudge faded in 2008 when mutual acquaintance Joy Elumelu spoke highly of KP and reassured Bovi that he wasn’t the type to intentionally snub people. The following year, fate brought them together at Peters’ Friday Night Laughs comedy club.
When some of the scheduled acts arrived late, KP’s team asked Bovi to fill in. Initially hesitant because he had been made to pay for his guests’ tickets, he eventually agreed and “ripped the crowd.” After the show, KP shook his hand, thanked him, and apologized for their earlier phone exchange. That marked the beginning of their friendship.
Bovi went on to test new material at KP’s club every month, promising never to repeat the same jokes. They later became football teammates, where Bovi saw KP’s gentle, forgiving nature firsthand. The comedian also shared one memorable moment when KP ran into the shower area, football boots still on, to ensure Bovi and another teammate weren’t fighting again.
Their bond extended beyond work, according to Bovi. He attended KP’s wedding and his children’s naming ceremonies, and the two often hung out to play football or video games.
Reflecting on KP’s passing, Bovi expressed gratitude for having told him in person how much he had influenced his career:
“It didn’t take much. It was in the little things. KP was an influencer. I’m sad he left too soon, but I’m grateful for all he gave the world including me. And I’m grateful that I shared the same birthday with him.”
see screenshot of his lengthy post below:
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