Charly Boy Explains Why He Isn’t Angry Over Obasanjo Calling Him ‘Ashawo’

Veteran entertainer Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, has reacted to former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s decision to describe him as an “ashawo” during the London launch of his memoir, 999.

Videos from the event circulated online showing Obasanjo playfully addressing Charly Boy with several labels, including “thief,” “barawo,” “drug addict” and “ashawo.”

Rather than expressing anger over the remarks, Charly Boy said he understood them within the context of his long-standing relationship with the former president.

In a post shared on his X account on Friday, the entertainer said Obasanjo was not necessarily suggesting that he engages in prostitution. Instead, he interpreted the remarks as part of the former president’s familiar and teasing manner towards him.

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Charly Boy noted that he had been called different names throughout his life because of his unconventional lifestyle and outspoken personality. He said people had described him as a rebel, a “mad man,” a jaga-jaga boy and even a tortoise.

According to him, having Obasanjo publicly tease him was also an indication of the closeness and affection between them.

Charly Boy further recalled that Obasanjo had previously spoken positively about aspects of his character, particularly his relationship with his late father, Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, and his mother.

He said the former president’s willingness to joke about him publicly could therefore be viewed within the broader context of their relationship.

Despite accepting the playful nature of the remarks, Charly Boy made it clear that he did not agree with being called an “ashawo.”

He concluded his response by saying he would accept the title jokingly and continue with his life.

The entertainer’s reaction has generated interest online, particularly because of the unusual exchange between the veteran activist and former Nigerian leader during the memoir launch.