Veteran entertainer and activist Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, has opened up about his controversial past, admitting he once engaged in theft, white-collar crime and several reckless decisions during his younger years.
Speaking during an interview on Arise Prime Time, the self-styled “Area Fada” said the revelations are detailed in his forthcoming memoir, 999, which he described as an honest account of his life without hiding the mistakes that shaped him.
“I’ve 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 today, but I believe there’s a purpose for my life,” he said.
Charly Boy disclosed that while living in the United States in his mid-twenties, he became involved in white-collar crime before eventually changing the course of his life.
According to him, the experiences played a major role in his personal transformation and inspired him to write an unfiltered memoir that captures both his failures and triumphs.
He said 999 leaves little untold, explaining that only incidents he could no longer remember were omitted from the book.
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The veteran entertainer noted that the title 999 represents a fresh beginning rather than the rebellious image that has defined him for decades.
“I’ve been smart, I’ve been stupid and I’ve been foolish. Old things have passed away. This is a new beginning for me. All I want now is peace and tranquillity,” he said.
Reflecting on ageing, Charly Boy said he now prioritises inner peace over conflict, maintaining a healthier lifestyle through exercise, proper diet, positive relationships and avoiding unnecessary stress.
He also spoke about surviving prostate cancer, saying the experience motivated him to support Nigerian men facing similar health challenges and encourage them to speak openly about their struggles.
According to him, he spent nearly two years after his surgery counselling strangers who reached out to him for advice and emotional support.
On the state of the nation, Charly Boy expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future despite prevailing challenges, insisting that the country’s hope lies with its younger generation.
