Recap of "FATSSSA Got Talent" Season 3

By Akande Aanuoluwapo

The Social Sciences Student Association at the Faculty (FATSSSA) brought the excitement of "FATSSSA Got Talent" Season 3 to life on September 29th, 2023. Held at the Faculty's Large Lecture Theatre (LLT), the event was also streamed live on YouTube and Facebook. This article aims to provide a detailed account of the memorable "FATSSSA Got Talent" 3.0.

Despite the scheduled 11:00 a.m. start time, the event commenced at 11:30 a.m. It began with a touching rendition of the national anthem performed by Yinka Davies, the esteemed chief judge. Following this, Mr. Olumide Dasaolu, known as Olumi and the president of FATSSSA, handed the stage over to the hosts - the sashed Mr. and Miss FATSSSA. The audience was then invited to observe a one-minute silence in memory of Mohbad.

At 11:48 a.m., two of the judges were introduced: Taiwo Olurotimi, CEO of the sugar brand, and Yinka Davies, a renowned Nigerian lyricist and singer. Unfortunately, the third judge, Akano Israel (Achezy), was running late. The judges assessed performances using five criteria: Eloquence (5 marks), Confidence (10 marks), Performance (10 marks), Composure (10 marks), Stage Management (10 marks), and Delivery (10 marks), totaling 50 marks.

The very first performance of the evening left the audience in awe as contestant number three played the talking drum, impressively doing so from behind. Judge Achezy described his performance as "out of this world."

Next, contestant number four sang Beyonce's "Halo," but it fell short of the judges' expectations, who believed there was room for improvement.

An interesting aspect of "FATSSSA Got Talent" was the giveaways from sponsored brands like Lola's Piercing, Yellow Card (a cryptocurrency brand), and Ryad’s Genesis.

Following contestant number four’s performance, FATSSSATIES showcased their talent. The winner, a 100-level psychology student named Malik (a.k.a Berry) who danced, received a hair conditioner sponsored by Ryad’s Genesis.

Subsequently, two dancers entertained the audience, with the second dancer, Bilhal, struggling to perform due to a delay in the DJ preparing her music.

Returning to the contestants, contestant number five, Lois, a 400-level psychology student, sang Alicia Keys' "Hallelujah." While Judge Achezy felt she took better control of her voice than during the qualifiers, the chief judge believed she didn't meet the grand finale's expectations.

Contestant number six received praise from the chief judge for completing her rendition of "Jesus Take the Wheel." All judges agreed she was calm, although Judge Rotimi thought she could have done more.

The talent show continued with giveaways and a rapping session by Mr. FATSSSA himself. Jotters, cups of chin chins, and hair conditioners were awarded to participants who completed song lyrics or answered questions related to FATSSSA.

After the giveaways, notable figures, including the General Secretary of UI SU, the President of the Faculty of Law, and the Treasurer of UI’s SU, as well as a former president of FATSSSA, were introduced.

All judges praised contestant number seven’s performance, but Judge Achezy suggested he could have played his saxophone to a more popular song than "Havana" by Camila Cabello.

Richie, the freestyle rapper, delighted the audience by spontaneously creating a rap based on words provided by the audience.

Contestant number eight’s dance moves captivated both the audience and the judges. The chief judge was especially impressed and showed her appreciation by standing to applaud. Judge Rotimi described it as "spiritual."

Before contestant 10's act, “matchala of UI” performed, and another giveaway session ensued. While the judges agreed that contestant 10's performance was good, they believed he had the potential to do even better. Afterward, additional giveaways were conducted, honoring the sponsors and supporters of the show, including Igwe Monique, Akano Israel, and Taiwo Olurotimi. The chief judge also received an award, and pictures of the sponsors were taken.

The moment of truth arrived as the chief judge announced the results. Contestant number three, the talking drum player, was named the first runner-up, contestant number seven, Mr. Adeife, the saxophonist, secured the second runner-up position, and Contestant number eight, Mr. David Ikwunne, a 400-level student of the Department of Geography, was crowned the winner of the show.