New Talent Emerges at Kiekie Unscripted Experience Season Finale

Iyke Bede

The season finale of the first edition of “Kiekie Unscripted Experience” (KUE), a variety show that showcases talent from a wide range of creative fields, concluded with Benjamin Omosivie—known on stage as Benriffs—claiming the title and a brand‑new Mikano 2025 SUV: the Changan CS15.

The journey to the finale began in 2024 with auditions that drew thousands of Nigerian creatives, from singers and actors to spoken‑word poets and amateur cooks. The show officially premiered in 2025 with a lavish, celebrity‑themed costume launch.

The finale, held at the Mikano Cube 65 in Victoria Island, was divided into two parts: the Big Stage Competition, where spoken‑word poets and actors vied for ₦2.5 million, and the Performance Challenge Segment, where 17 singers competed for the SUV.

Hosted by comedian Otolorin Peter, better known as Kenny Blaq, and KUE creator Bukunmi Adeaga‑Ilori, known as Kiekie, the format gave industry experts and influencers the power to vote for the best talents.

During the Big Stage Competition, spoken‑word poets Ayomi Wright and Baba Soja impressed the audience, but both faced technical difficulties that led to a tie. In a rematch, Wright won by a narrow margin of four points, the closest result in the competition’s history.

The Performance Challenge Segment showcased a diverse array of musical styles—including afrobeats, rap, RnB, hip hop and gospel—each artist leaving a distinct mark on the crowd. Highlights included Eniola’s powerful rendition of “Proud Mary,” evoking memories of Tina Turner, and Grace’s gospel set that transformed the venue into a space of worship.

The top two singers, Benriffs and King Steve, advanced to the final round without contest. Both delivered strong vocal performances, technical skill, stage presence and a clear connection with the audience, distinguishing them from the rest of the field. King Steve, as first runner‑up, received ₦2.5 million.

In a separate segment celebrating culinary talent, the top four chefs—Chef Bumz, Chef Moyo, Chef Glow and Chef Damian—were each awarded ₦500,000.

The finale felt like a family gathering, with Kiekie’s parents and daughter in attendance, joined by many of Nigeria’s most recognizable entertainment figures. Guests included IK Osakioduwa, Bovi Ugboma, Stan Nze, Enioluwa Adeoluwa, Hilda Baci, Eniola Badmus and Osas Ighodaro.