By Olufemi Ajasa
As a freshman at Lagos State University during the academic year 2004/2005, I eagerly anticipated attending the series of freshman parties that were supposedly organized to foster bonds between newcomers, referred to as JJC’s, and staylites, students who had spent more than a year on campus. However, I soon discovered that these gatherings had a hidden agenda – It’s a breeding ground for ‘seniors’ to lure and steal female freshers while leaving their male counterparts stranded. Unfortunately, I was one of the victims of these ‘one-chance’ parties. But let’s steer away from dwelling on that past and focus on a story that won’t bring tears.
Amidst the buzz surrounding these parties, one name consistently dominated the conversation – Dotun Kayode, the leader of a renowned dance group “Xtreme Steppers” in the school. Though I initially lacked familiarity with him, the fervor surrounding his performances piqued my curiosity. Especially as rumors swirled about an impending showdown between him and another talented dancer, one of our own freshmen, Nonso Asobe (Don Flexx), who is today a choreographer for the iconic Nigerian music duo, P-Square.
The much-anticipated showdown finally arrived. I was excited to see what set Dotun and his crew apart. Watching him dance was an eye-opening experience. In just one day, Dotun revealed aspects of his personality and talent that left a lasting impression. He is a disciplined stepper, tireless, happy, and loves the craft of entertainment. Every drop of sweat that fell from his pores as he performed was symbolic of his dedication to his craft.
No wonder, Dotun’s passion for his craft catapulted him to fame (Do2dtun). Following his impressive performances in top-notch music videos like D’banj’s ‘Why Me’ and ‘Same Ni’ by Dj Zeez, Dotun’s star continued to rise as he transitioned into the realm of television and radio personality. Hosting shows and concerts further cemented his reputation as a charismatic entertainer.
But Do2dtun’s ascent to stardom didn’t stop there. With what some might call ‘Abidoshaker’ (superpowers), Dotun’s reach extended even further, propelling him into the stratosphere of fame. Now, we’re accustomed to hearing the resounding chants of “Do2dtun” or “Energy Gad” from his adoring fans, a testament to his enduring popularity and magnetic presence in the entertainment industry.
While it may seem like the story of Do2dtun is merely about a man who danced his way to the top, there’s a depth to his journey that goes beyond the dance floor. Behind the scenes lies a narrative of resilience, positivity, and unwavering dedication to his craft.
In a world where challenges abound and obstacles seem insurmountable, Do2dtun chose to embrace positivity and radiate infectious energy to those around him. His ability to maintain such a buoyant spirit despite facing adversity speaks volumes about his character and inner strength.
The journey to maintain such energy comes with its costs. Yes, Do2dtun makes his feats appear effortless but let’s not underestimate the cost of generating such boundless energy. Energy generation is not cheap, the recent hike in electricity tariffs for band A customers in Nigeria should tell you that simple truth. For Do2dtun, let’s tinker with how he gets the mental fortitude, spiritual well-being, and physical fitness required to sustain such vibrancy. Do2dtun, aka EnergyGad, has mastered the art of balancing these aspects of his life, ensuring he’s always in the best form to entertain and inspire his audience.
A lover of family, and a loving dad to two beautiful daughters, Do2dtun continues to navigate the intricate balance between fatherhood and a flourishing career with determination. Despite the demands of his professional life, he remains committed to being a present and supportive parent, never lifeless in embracing and instilling in his daughters the same values of resilience and positivity that have guided him throughout his journey.
His life serves as a reminder that success doesn’t solely rely on talent or luck. It’s a combination of discipline, perseverance, and a relentless commitment to self-improvement. Therefore, I raise a toast to EnergyGad, for demonstrating what it means to shine brightly in a world that can often feel dull. Your journey is a testament to the power of positivity and the boundless potential that resides within each of us.