Kevin Arua, the content creator popularly known for his satirical character Governor Amuneke and followed by over 433,000 people on Instagram, speaks with Faith Ajayi about his journey into content creation.
Tell us about your educational background.
I attended Christ the King Primary School in Ovoko, Enugu State. For secondary school, I began at Ovoko Boys Secondary School before completing my studies at UNICEF Secondary School. It was originally designed to be government-funded, but politics intervened and it eventually became privately managed. After my WAEC exams, I was admitted into the Institute of Management and Technology, Enugu, where I obtained a National Diploma in Science Laboratory Technology and later an HND in Physics Electronics.
What were your early interests before comedy, and when did you first start using social media?
I was always drawn to many things. As a child, I imagined I would become a scientist because I loved science and invention. But I was also naturally funny, loved acting, drawing, and performing. In secondary school, I entertained students during assembly, and in IMT, I served as Director of Socials. Even though I didn’t initially see entertainment as a career, it was always part of me.
By my final year, I was painting and selling artwork to support myself. After graduation, I moved to Ibadan for NYSC, where I joined a cinematography and video editing programme. At that point, I was already making short videos shared mainly on WhatsApp, though I wasn’t familiar with Instagram.
After orientation camp, I got my first real media job in Lagos through a friend. I handled almost everything — camera work, editing, scripting — because the owner ran the company as a one-man operation. That environment helped me develop strong production skills.
During that time, I created a comedy series called Oga Landlord, posted on the company’s YouTube channel. Eventually, I opened my own comedy page and uploaded content on both platforms. When the company stopped funding shoots, I focused on my own videos, recording on weekends while holding a 9–5 job.
My first major character was Chief Amuneke, created around 2018–2019. I focused first on growing my Facebook page because Instagram growth felt slower. Then Tunde Ednut reposted one of my videos — that changed everything. I realised content creation was what I truly wanted to pursue.
Before that moment, I was shooting music videos, hoping to follow in Clarence Peters’ footsteps. But after my video went viral, I committed fully to comedy and challenged myself to release five videos weekly. Things picked up quickly. When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted work, I doubled down on content creation.
Eventually, I lost my job, but my online platforms began paying off. By 2021, Facebook monetised my page, and I focused entirely on content creation.
Can you explain the timeline from your media job to running your own productions?
I worked in media from 2017 to 2020, but I was already creating personal content before I resigned. From 2021 onward, I’ve been running my own productions full-time. Many know me now as Governor Amuneke, but I had been creating and earning from content long before the character gained wide attention.
What inspired your style of content?
Honestly, inspiration came in a divine way. I’m not calling myself an activist, but a genuine desire for change shaped my direction.
The defining moment came during my wedding in Nsukka, Enugu. Many friends couldn’t attend because of the insecurity in the area. The fear people expressed and the violent videos circulating online made me question how I was using my platform. Was I just entertaining people, or could I do more?
I posted a polite video appealing to the governor about the killings. Instead of addressing the issue, the government dismissed the reports as propaganda and arrested people for speaking up. That made me realise the risks involved. So, I turned to satire — a safer yet powerful way to highlight issues.
That’s how the Governor Amuneke character emerged. I started creating skits portraying leaders downplaying serious issues — like mixing up “citizens” with “senior citizens” (cows) — to mirror real governance failures. The goal is to entertain and provoke thought about leadership, accountability, and empathy.
This shift began around June–July this year. When I noticed how deeply people connected with the content, I fully embraced political satire and rebranded from Chief Amuneke to Governor Amuneke.
Would you say your ideas come from personal experiences?
Yes, absolutely.
What type of content resonates most with your audience?
Political content currently connects the most. Anything touching on governance or public issues gets strong engagement because it reflects the real struggles people face.
What challenges have you faced while creating content?
Honestly, I’ve not faced major challenges. My background taught me to do almost everything myself — shooting, editing, producing. Now that I have a team, things are much smoother. I simply call, and people show up. At this stage, I can’t point to any significant challenges.
How important is collaboration in your work?
Very important. Collaboration exposes your work to new audiences because every creator has their own community. When you collaborate, their followers discover you too.
I prefer working with creators whose content has depth and aligns with my message. For example, working with Eedris Abdulkareem was powerful because he has a strong voice against bad governance. Collaborations amplify the impact of the message, not just the reach.
Beyond humour, what message do you want viewers to take away?
I want people to become more aware of what’s happening in government — to see through the theatrics. Through comedy, I expose fake project commissions, empty promises, corruption, and mismanagement. It’s entertainment with a purpose: laugh, but also think.
Have you experienced creative burnout or backlash?
Not really. Negative comments happen, sometimes from tribal sentiments or people defending those being mocked. Some backlash may even come from individuals linked to people I criticise. But nothing serious. I focus on the support and keep creating.
What has been your most rewarding moment so far?
Money is great during high engagement, but the most fulfilling moments are when people stop me to say, “You’re speaking for us.” Knowing I bring joy and awareness at the same time is priceless.
How does your family feel about your career?
They’re proud. I handle my work responsibly and avoid attacking individuals directly, so they appreciate my approach and support me fully.
Who has been your biggest cheerleader?
My team and close associates. They keep me motivated and grounded.
Where do you see your brand in five years?
Going global — producing impactful films on platforms like Netflix or whatever comes next. I aim to become one of the world’s leading satirical creators, using storytelling to spotlight social and political issues.
Do you hope to expand into other areas of entertainment?
Yes. My YouTube series will soon be out, with films that explore politics, life lessons, and relatable stories. I’m not into stand-up, but I enjoy stage acting and plan to produce live shows.
Any dream collaborations?
I have a list of actors and filmmakers I’d like to work with in different genres. Internationally, I want to collaborate with Hollywood producers on original films that reflect the political realities we face. I don’t have specific names yet, but I’ll know when the opportunity comes.
How do you unwind?
By talking with friends and family. Their conversations make me happy and help me learn. Even when resting, I’m jotting ideas or editing for fun, but I also enjoy gaming and hanging out.
How do you stay grounded?
I don’t get carried away by fame. I live a normal life unless someone recognises me. I’m not at a point where I can’t walk freely, and I’m surrounded mostly by love and positive energy.
What does winning awards mean to you?
It’s fulfilling. Awards remind me of my progress but also motivate me to keep pushing and creating meaningful work.
Your advice to upcoming creators?
Start with what you have. Stay original. Don’t wait for perfection. Nobody knows what will go viral — just create. Build solid relationships, protect your reputation, and stay consistent. The industry is big enough for everyone, and consistency will open more doors than promises ever will.
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