Entertainer and political activist, Charles Chukwuemeka Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, has opened up on the mistakes, risks and defining experiences that shaped his life, saying he eventually found purpose in helping others and speaking truth to power.
The outspoken media personality made the remarks during an interview with ARISE News on Friday, while discussing his forthcoming memoir, 999: The Memoir of Charly Boy, which chronicles his unconventional journey, personal struggles and evolution.
Charly Boy admitted to a turbulent past, saying he made serious mistakes and lived a risky lifestyle before discovering meaning in service to others.
“I made mistakes in my life. I’ve been a thief, I’ve done very risky things, I’ve done very stupid things, very foolish things.
”In fact, I have no business being here with you tonight. But I guess there’s a purpose for my life, and I’m glad I found out what that purpose is,” he said.
He explained that his purpose now lies in helping people, particularly men dealing with health and emotional challenges, describing it as deeply fulfilling.
“To just do things that speak to my soul… It gives me some kind of high that I’m able to help people out, especially men,” he said.
Struggle for identity and family tension
Reflecting on his upbringing as the son of late Supreme Court Justice, Chukwudifu Oputa, Charly Boy said he struggled under the weight of his father’s reputation and initially rejected being defined by it.
“At first, there was no love lost between us because I felt I was living under this overwhelming image, and I was suffocating.
”I was always referred to as ‘that man’s son,’ and I hated that,” he said.
He added that his drive to build his own identity eventually earned him his father’s respect.
“I had more money than him, more fans, more popularity… and one day he said to me, ‘I’m really proud of you,’” he recalled.
“Charly Boy is a brand”
The entertainer also described “Charly Boy” as a constructed persona, insisting that his real identity is Charles Oputa.
“Charly Boy is all contrived. Charly Boy simply does not exist. I am the creator of that brand,” he said.
He explained that he expresses different sides of himself through various personas, including “Linda” and “Area Fada,” depending on the situation.
Advocacy and men’s health
Charly Boy said his advocacy around men’s health and emotional vulnerability is aimed at breaking harmful stereotypes.
“Men don’t cry… but this man cries. I think I was trying to free a lot of men,” he said.
Turning to national issues, he expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, saying young people remain the country’s greatest hope.
“I still believe that the salvation of this country lies in the hands of its exceptional people, and who are those? The young people,” he said.
Speaking on his nearly five-decade marriage, he credited communication and understanding for its longevity.
“We are like Tom and Jerry. We quarrel today, we make up tomorrow,” he said.
On legacy, Charly Boy said he is more focused on documenting his life experiences than how history ultimately judges him.
“When I’m dead, I’m dead. Who cares? It’s all about legacy,” he said.
He also revealed that his memoir would be released on July 31 and is expected to be launched by former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
The veteran entertainer added that actor and media personality Denrele Edun is his preferred choice to portray him in a film adaptation of his life.
