Over a decade ago, a promising young talent was sacked in his prime. The death of John Chijioke, known as CD John, a talented comedian, shocked the Nigerian entertainment scene.
His death in a terrible accident on March 24, 2011 near Lagos Island remains fresh in the minds of many privileged people who have experienced his art, especially his uncanny ability to imitate Christian gospel singers, especially “Warri”, “Yoruba” and “Ariaria (an Eastern style of praise)”.
A year earlier, another rising star, Oladapo Olaonipekun aka Dagrin, passed away in almost similar circumstances. That made CD John’s death all the more devastating. At 23, he had all the makings of a star. And a talented one at that!
He had the witty and spontaneous qualities that every stand-up comedian must possess. His friends and colleagues also described him as humble, another rare quality among stars.
A failed musician turned comedian, CD John was a regular on now-closed shows such as Bummi Davies’ “Stand Up Naija” comedy show alongside artists such as Omo Baba and Princess.
CD John performing at Jedi Live in Lagos, 2010 Launch Pad
Born on March 27, 1988 in Abia State, Nigeria, CD John initially pursued a career in music before discovering his true calling in stand-up comedy. Although details about his formal education were only partially known, his natural talent and charisma made him an undeniable standout in the industry.
When he appeared, the comedy scene in Lagos was already booming. His big break came in 2010, when he gained widespread recognition for his humorous portrayal of Nigeria's cultural diversity.
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CD John’s unique blend of music and humour, deeply rooted in everyday Nigerian experiences, quickly set him apart. His ability to parody made him a favourite with audiences and increased his popularity, showcasing his creative genius.
Notable appearances include Teju Babyface and Jedi's November 2010 live comedy show, “Laugh Wan Kill Me Die (LWKMD).”
CD John also wowed audiences with his performances at events such as Stand Up Nigeria and venues such as Koko Lounge in Victoria Island, Lagos.
Breadwinner
The late John resided with his mother and younger sister at Jakande Estate, Isolo, Lagos.
Following the death of his father, CD John took on the role of breadwinner. So, as CD John gained fame, he took on the responsibility of his family.
The comedian rented the gated bungalow in January 2011, his new home after moving from his previous residence in Isolo.
A reminder of CD John's tragic night
In March 2011, just days before his tragic accident, CD John hosted a listening party for the singer's Harrysong album in Tribeca, Victoria Island.
As host of the event, he effortlessly captivated the audience and delivered a performance that would sadly be his last.
After the event, the comedian left in a convoy with Gulder Ultimate Search (GUS) Season 7 winner Kunle Remi heading to his home in Jakande, Isolo. However, fate took a tragic turn when CD John’s vehicle, a black Golf 2, rammed into a parked car on Lagos Island, resulting in fatal injuries.
The fatal accident occurred in the early hours of 24 March 2011. CD John, along with his girlfriend, Ebere, and two other passengers, were rushed to Saint Nicholas Hospital on Victoria Island.
“My friend was driving my car, but we immediately noticed that there was a car on the road. He managed to turn left, but it was sudden, and my car crashed into the back of the Toyota. Meanwhile, CD was coming behind at full speed and crashed uncontrollably into my car (a Jeep Explorer) seconds later,” the 2011 GUS winner told NET NG about the incident.
Despite initial treatment, CD John succumbed to his injuries that same morning. The body of the deceased comedian was rushed to the mortuary of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja, Lagos.
His death shocked the entertainment industry as a day earlier, famous Yoruba actor Ahmed Alasari who died two days earlier on March 22, 2011 was buried on the eve of CD John's tragic accident.
The tragedy was made all the more heartbreaking because CD John died three days before his 23rd birthday.
On April 20, 2011, CD John was laid to rest at the Atan Cemetery in Yaba, Lagos. Prominent figures in the Nigerian comedy industry attended his burial, leading a motorcade to pay tribute to him.
CD John performing the shortcut to Dreams
CD John's death marked the loss of a promising talent whose career was just beginning to blossom. Just before he died, his career and lifestyle had greatly improved and he was confident about his future in comedy.
Among his unfulfilled dreams were plans to perform internationally and hone his unique comedic style.
“It’s very sad. He (CD John) used to call me his mum as a joke and he was supposed to accompany me to a show in London soon,” comedian Princess told Bella Naija days after his death.
The short life of the vibrant rising star was a sad reminder of questions about what could have been if CD John's talent had been given more time to shine.
What the industry had to say
The news of CD John’s death reverberated throughout the Nigerian entertainment industry, leaving colleagues like Basketmouth, Teju Babyface, Ali Baba and AY Makun shocked and saddened. They all noted the huge void left by his untimely death, which underlined the impact of his loss.
AY Makun described CD John as “our own Dagrin”, referencing the similar shock and abrupt ending both stars experienced. Comedian Princess recalled how close she was to CD John.
The late Sound Sultan, in shock, said it was a sad tragedy because he was just starting his career.
In an interview with Hip TV, comedian Kenny Blaq explained that he did not invent musical comedy. He described the late Gbenga Adeboye and CD John as the pioneers of the genre in Nigeria. While he acknowledged their (Kenny Blaq’s) contributions, he noted that his style added a new and modern twist, similar to the styles of Wizkid and Davido.
Other comedians such as Ajibade Oyemade, MC Danni B and Mandy also paid tribute to him, highlighting CD John’s humility, creativity and style. They noted that his ability to fuse music with comedy was seen as a unique contribution that resonated with fans and industry colleagues alike.
Legacy
Although CD John did not win many awards, his unique style of Nigerian comedy still has a significant impact. His blend of music and humour continues to inspire musical comedians like Blaq and others.
Although his career was brief, CD John's work remains a tribute to a talent whose impact endures. The tragic loss of CD John echoes the many talents whose careers were unexpectedly halted before their peak. In his brief but impactful career, CD John left a mark on the memories of those who witnessed his art.
In May 2017, during the 50th anniversary celebrations in Lagos, entertainment professionals held a memorial to honour the influence of late Nigerian comedians. The event paid tribute to CD John and notable figures like John Chukwu, Sam Loco Efe, Gbenga Adeboye and others who had significantly influenced the entertainment industry.
Watch a vintage CD John performance below.