Obasanjo at ‘999’ book launch: What endeared me to Charly Boy amid his ‘Area Fada’ persona

Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has shared the personal reasons behind his evolving relationship with entertainer and activist Charles Oputa, widely known as Charly Boy. Obasanjo revealed that Oputa's profound devotion to his parents was the key factor that bridged the gap between the two public figures.

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You are two personalities in one; Charly Boy, the one you use to extort money from people, and Charles Oputa, the true son of Justice Oputa. That’s what really endeared me to you.

Speaking at the Lagos launch of "999: A Memoir in Tribute to Late Justice Chukwudifu Oputa," Obasanjo admitted he was initially wary of Charly Boy's controversial "Area Fada" persona. He described his initial perception being shaped by external factors, including the sight of a power bike outside Oputa's home. However, his perspective dramatically shifted after meeting Oputa's father, the respected jurist Justice Chukwudifu Oputa.

"I entered your house and saw the old man. He was one of the few Nigerians I truly and sincerely respect," Obasanjo stated. He was particularly moved by the attentiveness and care Oputa demonstrated towards his father. This experience, coupled with Oputa's later dedication to his mother, solidified Obasanjo's respect for the man behind the public persona. Obasanjo recognized that the "Charly Boy" act was a means of survival, while the core Charles Oputa was a "decent man."

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I fought the civil war to unite Nigeria. If you are fighting a war to unite a people, you cannot take actions that are destructive or that will bring about disunity and separation.

During the event, Obasanjo also reflected on his command during the Nigerian Civil War. He emphasized his commitment to national unity, stating, "I fought the civil war to unite Nigeria." He detailed his strategic decision to avoid bombing Owerri after its recapture, opting instead for warning shots to minimize destruction. This approach, he explained, was crucial in preserving the city and its inhabitants, ultimately contributing to the war's end.

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I didn’t drop a single bomb in Owerri because it would be destructive. I dropped bombs outside Owerri to warn the people that we were coming.