'We make losses and still pay tax' - MC Okokobioko on organising comedy shows

Ghanaian-Nigerian-based comedian MC Okokobioko has shared how much he spends to stage his yearly stand-up comedy event.

In an interview with GhanaWeb during his sold-out stand-up comedy special, titled “Comfortably Struggling,” MC Okokobioko noted that he spends close to GH¢200,000 to organise the event.

MC Okokobioko explained that despite the huge investment, he often makes losses after his shows and still has to pay taxes to the Ghana Revenue Authority.

MC Okokobioko leaves National Theatre audience in stitches with ‘Comfortably Struggling’

“I spend over GH¢150,000 to GH¢200,000 to host a show. I decided to reduce my expenses. I got more sponsors, so it reduced the cost a little bit. I still spend close to GH¢100,000. You make losses, and you pay tax on the loss,” he said.

MC Okokobioko additionally shared that advertisements do not necessarily guarantee a good turnout.

He explained that the ordinary Ghanaian prefers to be approached and convinced about why they should attend a concert.

Patrons were ‘Caught In The Middle’ laughing at Mc Okokobioko's comedy special

“So, I had to go and talk to the GRA this time, and I explained to them that with my four years’ experience, I’ve come to realise that advertising does not equate to ticket sales. Because I’ve done a show, I did an advert with Nana Ama McBrown to promote my show.

“I have millions of followers. I’ve been posting. But a Ghanaian doesn’t just see an advert and decide to buy a ticket. You need to meet them one-on-one and give them 450 reasons why they need to attend this concert,” he added.

Watch the video below:

I spend over 150,000 cedis every year to host my comedy show - MC Okokobioko#ghanaweb#ghanawebtv pic.twitter.com/rRHCa25ohZ

— GhanaWeb (@TheGhanaWeb) September 29, 2026