Popular Nigerian comedian and content creator Carter Efe has announced that his Twitch account has been temporarily suspended for four months due to alleged violations of the platform's Terms of Service and Community Guidelines.
The suspension comes just days after Efe achieved a milestone as Africa's most-followed streamer on Twitch, amassing over 454,000 followers following a record-breaking livestream collaboration with music superstar Davido.
Efe, known for his energetic and often chaotic streaming style that blends comedy skits, music, and interactive fan sessions, shared the news via social media on Monday, expressing heartbreak over the decision.
Sources indicate the ban may stem from content flagged for "unregulated physical violence," including instances where Efe engaged in playful but intense on-stream antics, such as wielding props like cutlasses or tearing clothing during broadcasts.
Despite the temporary nature of the suspension, fans and fellow creators have voiced strong backlash, labeling the timing as suspicious and potentially motivated by external factors, with some speculating it disrupts Efe's momentum amid talks of high-value deals, including a rumored $1 million collaboration with Davido.
In response to the suspension, Efe has pivoted to alternative platforms, resuming streams on YouTube without delay, showcasing his resilience and commitment to his audience.
Supporters across Africa have rallied online, petitioning Twitch to reconsider or reduce the ban, emphasizing Efe's role as a source of joy and cultural representation for viewers on the continent. Hashtags like #FreeCarterEfe have trended, with calls for the platform to address perceived biases against Nigerian creators.
Twitch has not yet issued an official statement on the matter, but the incident highlights ongoing discussions about content moderation on global streaming platforms, particularly for creators from emerging markets. Efe's team has not confirmed plans for an appeal but remains optimistic about a resolution.
Carter Efe rose to prominence through viral comedy skits and hit songs like "Machala," transitioning into streaming where he built a dedicated fanbase with his unfiltered, high energy persona. This suspension marks a significant setback but underscores the growing influence of African talent in the digital entertainment space.