Popular Nigerian media personality IK Osakioduwa has opened up on why he did not return as host for the 2026 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), ending months of speculation among fans.
IK made the revelation during an interview on The Morayo Show, hosted by Morayo Afolabi-Brown, where he discussed his long-running role in the prestigious awards ceremony and the personal principles guiding his career choices.
The 2026 AMVCA, which marked the 12th edition of the event, was held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. The ceremony, sponsored by premium tequila brand Don Julio, was hosted by comedian Bovi and South African actress and producer Nomzamo Mbatha, attracting some of the biggest names in Africa’s entertainment industry.
IK Osakioduwa had previously served as the face of the AMVCA for 11 consecutive years, beginning from the inaugural edition on March 9, 2013, up until the 11th edition in 2025, before stepping down ahead of the 2026 ceremony.
Speaking on why he was absent from the latest edition, the media personality explained that his decision was guided by personal values and professional boundaries he has maintained over the years.
According to him, he has consistently turned down several lucrative deals that do not align with his beliefs, including endorsements involving alcohol and tobacco-related brands.
He said, “My first big job that would have paid me millions of naira was an alcoholic job, but I said no. Even though it was big money, in life you have to have something that keeps you humble. For Samson, it was his hair; for me, it is not working with alcohol and tobacco brands.”
IK added that he does not judge others who choose differently, stressing that his stance is strictly personal and rooted in conviction rather than criticism.
The broadcaster also spoke about his passion for acting, noting that he remains open to opportunities in Nollywood and other creative spaces, adding that if he is not invited, he would not hesitate to explore other platforms.
His remarks have since sparked conversations among fans, many of whom praised his consistency and discipline in maintaining his personal and professional standards.
Watch him speak below (swipe to view more);
Watch the full video below;
Recall that during the AMVCA12, Bovi and Nomzamo Mbatha recreated the viral moment Funke Akindele snubs Toyin Abraham.
The likes of Osas Ighodaro, Toyin Abraham, Kiekie, Wumi Toriola, Lateef Adedimeji, Cute Abiola, Stan Nze, Mercy Eke, Dorathy Bachor, Femi Adebayo, Etinosa Idemudia, Erica Nlewedim, actress Idia Aisien, Uche Jombo, Bola Ogunmola, Bisola Aiyeola, Ariyike Dimples, Juliana Olayode, BBN Saga, BBN Imisi, Sunshine Rosman, Uzor Arukwe, Chimezie Imo, Eniola Ajao, among others.
The comedic skit referenced a scene from Iyabo Ojo’s movie premiere, The Return of Arinzo, where Toyin Abraham was seen exchanging pleasantries with Mercy Aigbe and Iyabo Ojo before approaching Funke Akindele.
In the widely circulated clip, Toyin Abraham greeted Funke Akindele repeatedly, saying “Aunty Funke, Aunty Funke,” but the veteran actress appeared to ignore her, maintaining a straight expression and walking past without responding.
The moment reportedly led to tension online at the time, with reactions suggesting Toyin Abraham felt slighted and later took to social media actions including unfollowing Funke Akindele.
Revisiting the incident on stage at AMVCA12, host Bovi playfully reenacted Toyin Abraham’s gesture while Nomzamo Mbatha took on the role of Funke Akindele, deliberately ignoring him in a humorous twist that sent the audience into loud laughter.
The lighthearted performance added a comedic highlight to the star-studded event, as attendees reacted with cheers and amusement over the recreated Nollywood drama.
Watch the moment below in case you missed it;
