In truth, there is none like Asotime Groove in the whole of the Ancient City of Benin (ACB) as far as outdoor relaxation and entertainment spot is concerned! In fact, some renowned outdoor relaxation spots in Lagos (the commercial hub of Nigeria) may not withstand the competitive power of Asotime should it extend its frontier to Lagos.
Asotime is a place of absolute and profound structure; created in such an outdoor style to conveniently accommodate over a thousand customers in its full capacity. Asotime’s exhilarating and overwhelming night vibes arouse such a feeling that makes customers gobble deep into the night without realising it. From 8pm, particularly at weekends, it would not be out of place to liken Asotime’s environment to that of a Christmas Eve; with the bubbling disco light dazzling the whole area! As the peak hours (9 and 10) approaches, human and vehicular gridlock also gradually builds up on the street of Asotime due to the numerous customers that patronise the bar/club. Customers of varied professions addicted to night life; lawyers, engineers, doctors, journalists, politicians, students find it lovely at Asotime where they traditionally assemble to take advantage of the naturally inducing atmosphere to refresh body and soul; with live music and sometime DJ remixing to the delight of customers. TV sets hang on every corner showing Nollywood and Hollywood movies simultaneously. Whenever there is football matches, all TVs are tuned to sports channels. Football atmosphere could be very electrifying at the bar.
Asotime is not a place for the shy and quiet fellow who is at home with tranquil atmosphere. It is a peculiar bizarre environment that only the gyrators could derive maximum pleasure from. But then, strippers are not allowed within the four walls of the club for decency sake. There is a VIP special indoor bar created for customers who may want to escape from the crowd. VIP, not because of its expensive menu; menu prices are the same in both Asotime’s indoor and outdoor bar. VIP, because, of a truth, some customers are peculiar and thus must be treated peculiarly to their own taste!
Indeed, Asotime is a place of real entertainment; providing opportunities for up and coming artists (musicians and comedians) to showcase their talents and entertain customers at the same time. Saturdays are dedicated to live music from 9pm; followed by Sunday special programme (‘Ororo’) when special time is set aside for customers to have dance competition and have opportunity of winning prizes such as plasma TV, gas cylinder and bicycle as the case may be.
Asotime also throws its gates open to all customers! Entry is Free of Charge (FoC) no matter the star performing on stage. That has however, led to the extremely tight security at Asotime. Suspected touts and miscreants are not allowed entry; they are resisted at the gate by well-built private guards and armed Mobile Policemen! The details of all the cab operators hanging to pick customers are registered by the management for easy tracking in case of any eventuality. Securing customers is not a small matter for Asotime’s management. Then comes it’s nicely kited service girls walking around to ensure customers are well attended to. Asotime’s BBQ stands out from the menu. Some customers actually come just to have a taste of it! Assorted pepper soups, ‘Nkwobi’, ‘Isi ewu’, and related African menu are available; wine and spirit of different categories and brands and, of course, soft drinks to meet the needs of some customers.
Asotime’s location is another factor that gives it an edge over likely competitors in Benin City. Located at 5, Ihama Street, GRA, opposite Royal Marble Hotel, Asotime attracts the big guys in the area; and this is evident in the number of cars usually pack both inside and outside! Asotime also offers comfortable halls and outside spaces for wedding and birthday receptions, and other related social events.
NATHANIEL AKHIGBE
