How comedian MC Duke brings relief, laughter to expectant mothers

Every day, God keeps inspiring me on new ways to entertain pregnant women

By Deborah Uzoma

IN a heartwarming display of compassion and creativity, Imo State-born comedian MC Duke (Duruji Ezekiel) has set for himself the mission of entertaining pregnant women in hospitals across Imo State, Nigeria. His initiative, which began in early 2023, has brought relief and joy to countless expectant mothers, earning him the nickname ‘Pregnant Women’s Husband!’

While sharing his story, MC Duke explained that his passion for performance was started at a young age when he used to dance to entertain people.

“In 2023, I met a pregnant woman during one of my content creation sessions,” he explained, “she informed me where they had their antenatal sessions, and that is where the ministry truly took off. I decided to visit the antenatal ward at Holy Family Hospital, and on my next visit, I brought buns and wine for the expectant mothers, cracked jokes, and we even danced together. Miraculously, nine pregnant women gave birth that same day.”

Since then, MC Duke has visited over 28 hospitals, including government and private institutions across Imo State. During these visits, the comedian also brings gifts to the pregnant women that further puts smiles on their faces. Moreso, he uses his platform to enlighten them on their rights during pregnancy. His dancing performances have become a source of comfort and stress relief for the expectant mothers, and some medical practitioners have even commended him for his work, according to him.

“Some medical practitioners in the state have really commended me,” MC Duke said. “In fact, some hospitals have reached out to me to do this for them, which I gladly accepted.”

MC Duke’s initiative has also received attention for its unique approach to supporting pregnant women towards ease of delivery. He believes that his work is a call from God and is motivated by the joy he derives from seeing people happy.

“Every day, God keeps inspiring me on new ways to entertain pregnant women,” MC Duke said. “Psalm 149 vs. 3 also resonates with what I do. I am the first comedian to venture into this part of entertainment in Owerri.”

MC Duke

Despite facing challenges in organizing and executing his comedy mission outreach for expectant mothers, MC Duke remains committed to his work. He has been self-funding his outreach and has even used his own resources to pay hospital bills for some pregnant women.

“I need collaboration and assistance from spirited individuals and government to expand this outreach,” MC Duke said. “I am running a non-profit NGO, and I need assistance to move into rural communities, too.”

MC Duke’s drive for women to have safe deliveries is brne out of compassion and creativity in teh desire to make positive impact in people’s lives. His initiative has brought joy and relief to countless pregnant women, and his commitment to his work is an inspiration to others.