For many entertainers, GHS 2,000 might be considered a decent wage, but for Ghanaian comedian Richmond Amoako, popularly known as Lawyer Nti, that amount is considered disrespectful.
During an interview on Asempa 94.7FM’s Showbiz review with Obidumbie Adu Kumi, Lawyer Nti expressed his strong stance against accepting low payment for comedy shows. He emphasized that he takes his profession seriously and treats comedy as a business.
In his view, many comedians undervalue their work, and this directly affects their worth in the industry. He firmly stated that he would not agree to perform for offers like GHS 1,000 or GHS 2,000 if his expenses, such as transportation and costumes, exceed the payment. Instead of accepting such meager fees, he would prefer not to perform at all and would rather rest at home.
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Lawyer Nti firmly believes that comedians must assert themselves and not allow anyone to take advantage of their talent. When asked if he has encountered any issues with clients regarding his fee, he asserted that once he names his price, he doesn’t care about the client’s opinion or thoughts on the matter.
“Errm… I am not sure I have gotten anything like that because I am one of those people who will not accept anything that will make me suffer. I would rather sleep than come to your show and take maybe 1,000 or 2,000 considering my transport and costumes cost more than that. I will not do it. I will rather sleep and know I didn’t eat for one week,” Lawyer Nti stated.
As the famous ‘Kejetia vs Makola lawyer,’ he places a high value on himself and his work, refusing to be taken for granted simply because he is a comedian.
He praised fellow comedian Clemento Suarez for leading the campaign to encourage comedians to stand up for themselves and demand fair treatment.
According to Lawyer Nti, this change of mindset is crucial for comedians to be treated with respect and regarded as serious professionals within the entertainment industry.
