Veteran entertainer and social commentator, Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, has opened up about his approach to parenting, saying he has learned to allow his adult children to make their own decisions while offering guidance when necessary.
In an interview with Saturday Beats, Charly Boy said his experience as a father had taught him that parents cannot dictate the lives of their grown-up children.
He disclosed that two of his daughters identify as lesbians, noting that although he initially struggled to accept their decisions, he eventually chose to prioritize their happiness and maintain a strong relationship with them.
According to him, his younger daughter was the first to come out, while his older daughter made the decision more recently.
Charly Boy said he initially found it difficult to accept his younger daughter’s decision, particularly because she had not had children. However, he said his perspective changed as he recognized that his daughters were adults capable of making personal decisions about their lives.
He stressed that his primary concern was that his children should be happy, independent and responsible for their choices.
The entertainer said his parenting style had evolved with changing generations, particularly with millennials and Gen Z.
“As a parent, I’ve learnt that with millennials and Gen Zs, you don’t tell them what to do; you can only advise them and try to get them to see the logical side of what you’re putting across for them to take, leave or trash,” he said.
Charly Boy also rejected the idea of using force or authoritarian methods to control his children, saying the era of “beating and commanding” children was over.
He explained that his willingness to speak publicly about his family was consistent with his personality and the principles he had expressed in his book, 999.
Beyond his family life, Charly Boy also spoke warmly about his relationship with former President Olusegun Obasanjo, whom he described as both a close friend and a father figure.
He said their relationship developed naturally and has grown into one where they regularly discuss issues ranging from religion to personal matters.
According to Charly Boy, he sometimes spends three or four hours speaking with Obasanjo and often turns to him for advice when faced with difficult decisions.
He described the former president as someone who reminds him of his late father and said their conversations have strengthened their bond.
Charly Boy added that despite the difference in their ages, he relates with Obasanjo comfortably and considers him both a trusted friend and a father figure.
