Former Nigerian Idol winner, Kunle Ogunrombi, popularly known as K-Peace, has accused the organizers of the reality show of failing to deliver the prize money and benefits promised to him after his victory in Season 5.

During an interview on the Honest Bunch Podcast with Nedu Wazobia, K-Peace expressed his frustration over what he described as unfulfilled promises.

“I came out of the Nigerian Idol platform with zero naira in my account.”

A Decade of Waiting Without Payment

K-Peace, who was crowned winner of the Etisalat-sponsored Season 5 in 2015, revealed that, despite the public announcement that he had won ₦7.5 million, a brand-new car, and a two-week trip to Dubai, none of these were fully delivered.

He recounted his struggles after the competition, stating that he had to move around Lagos for interviews without even having food to eat.

“They announced that I had won ₦7.5 million. When I asked about the prize, they said they were still branding the car. What they announced on national TV was that I won ₦7.5 million with a brand-new car and a two-week trip to Dubai. I went through hell after winning the show.”

A Broader Issue in Reality TV Competitions?

This revelation has sparked discussions about the credibility of reality TV competitions in Nigeria, with many questioning whether other winners of similar competitions have faced the same issues.

If K-Peace’s claims are true, it raises concerns about transparency, accountability, and the well-being of contestants who put their talents on display, only to allegedly be abandoned after the cameras stop rolling.

Should reality show winners have legally binding contracts to ensure they receive their winnings? Should the public hold organizers accountable when such allegations arise?

For now, Nigerian Idol organizers are yet to respond to K-Peace’s claims, but the discussion around fair treatment and compensation in entertainment competitions continues.