Charly Boy Reacts to Obasanjo’s ‘Ashawo’ Joke

Veteran entertainer Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, has explained the context behind former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s description of him as an “ashawo” during the London launch of his memoir, 999. Obasanjo, who hosted the September 29 event in London, was captured in a video jokingly referring to Charly Boy with several colourful descriptions, including “thief,” “barawo,” “drug addict” and “ashawo.” The remarks sparked reactions on social media, with some Nigerians questioning why the former president used the term. Responding in a post on X on Friday, Charly Boy said Obasanjo was not accusing him of prostitution but was simply teasing him in the manner of someone with whom he shares a close and familiar relationship. He recalled that he had been given several names over the years because of his unconventional lifestyle, saying Obasanjo had now added “ashawo” to the list. Charly Boy also said the former president’s willingness to publicly tease him reflected the affection between them, particularly because Obasanjo had previously spoken positively about his relationship with his late father, Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, and his mother.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo pictured with veteran entertainer Charly Boy. Photo credit: Charly Boy.

Charly Boy recalled that Obasanjo had previously described him as a “jagajaga boy” while acknowledging the care he showed towards his late father. He also noted that Obasanjo wrote the foreword to his memoir, 999, and served as chief host at the book’s Nigerian launch before accompanying the project to London. According to the entertainer, he therefore viewed the latest remarks as part of their long-standing relationship and said he would accept the description in that spirit. Charly Boy said Obasanjo calling him such names in public could be seen as a sign that the former president was comfortable enough with him to joke in that manner, although he made it clear that he did not agree with the “ashawo” description. He concluded his response by telling Obasanjo, “Baba, I hear you. But I no agree with the ashawo part o!”

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