Chiki Kuruka, who manages singer Bien and is also his wife, is calling on workers to drop the habit of giving fake excuses when they arrive late and instead be truthful about what delayed them. In a video shared on Instagram on Monday, December 1, 2025, she explained that it becomes difficult to create effective workplace systems when people repeat the same excuses, especially claims like “losing a grandparent.”
She said, “Also, let’s normalise being honest about why we are late. As a boss, it’s impossible to create systems that support if guys are always ‘losing a grandparent’. Tell me you are hungover, tell me you overslept, tell me your kid didn’t sleep well last night, tell me you just needed an extra hour! It may not be an accepted reason, but at least it lets me understand you.” Her message highlighted that being truthful gives employers a realistic understanding of challenges employees may be facing. She added that honesty helps improve support structures at work because it reflects the real situations affecting time management.
Chiki also reminded workers that everyone has their own struggles. She said, “Ultimately, we are all just trying to do our best with our various quirks and circumstances.” Her approach focused on creating a workplace culture built on trust, empathy, and clear communication.
According to Chiki, transparency allows managers to understand patterns, needs, and difficulties within their teams. When employees explain the real reason behind lateness, whether it is exhaustion, parenting duties, or a tough morning, it becomes easier to address the root cause instead of navigating around fabricated stories. Her emphasis on truth-telling encourages more authentic conversations that can lead to better support systems.
How should workers listen to their bodies?
Chiki advised people to pay attention to what their bodies are communicating, especially during overwhelming days. She said, “It is okay to give yourself permission when your body is telling you, nah, you need more time… so always listen to that voice as well. It is not always gonna come there often, but listen to it when it comes. Because honestly, having that extra hour and a half just to drink coffee, sitting down….” Her words highlighted the importance of rest, recovery, and acknowledging when one needs a slower start to the day.
Her message comes at a time when she often speaks about how demanding her own role can be, especially when coordinating Bien’s tours, long workdays, and busy travel schedules. She encouraged workers to drop the excuses and instead communicate openly about what truly happened, whether it involves lack of sleep, family issues, or simply needing extra time to prepare for the day.
By Lucky Anyaje