Veteran entertainer and social activist Charles Oputa, widely known as CharlyBoy, marked his 75th birthday on Thursday with a strong message of no regrets over his unconventional life path. In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, CharlyBoy reflected on his decades-long career in music, activism, and media.
Born on June 19, 1950, as the son of former Supreme Court Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, CharlyBoy originally planned to become a priest but left the seminary after one year. Choosing to follow his own path, he pursued music and activism instead, often rebelling against his father’s expectations.
He recalled turning down a prestigious job at Mobil Oil and Gas, offered through his father’s influence, a decision that caused a rift between them. “I only wanted to break out of my father’s shadow,” he said. Despite the challenges and family disagreements, he says he has no regrets because every experience taught him valuable lessons.
CharlyBoy is known for his alternative lifestyle and his dedication to fighting for the rights of ordinary Nigerians. He led protests for military pensioners in the 1990s and was a key figure in the 2017 ‘Our Mumu Don Do’ movement, which called on then-President Muhammadu Buhari to either return to office or resign during a prolonged absence for medical treatment abroad.
He is also a respected singer-songwriter, TV presenter, and former president of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria. CharlyBoy hosted “The Charly Boy Show” and was a judge on “Nigeria Idol” in 2011. He has been married to African-American singer Diane for over 40 years.
CharlyBoy revealed plans to release his memoir titled “999,” which will tell the story of his life, including personal struggles such as rebelling against his parents and multiple marriages before turning 36.
On his 75th birthday, he chose a quiet celebration at home, spending the day resting and receiving well-wishers’ messages. He remains an enduring symbol of courage, resilience, and commitment to social justice in Nigeria.