Nigerian music star Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, has come under scrutiny following allegations that he abandoned his father, Fatai Odunsi, who is reportedly suffering from paralysis due to a stroke.
News About Nigeria understands that the situation has sparked heated discussions with conflicting narratives emerging about their past relationship and the circumstances leading to their estrangement.
Recent videos circulating online depict Mr. Odunsi in a frail state, appealing for financial assistance to manage his medical condition. The visuals have drawn criticism towards Asake, with many questioning why a successful artist with international recognition and a record deal with Empire Music has not provided support for his ailing father.
Conflicting Narratives Emerge
While some observers fault Asake for not extending help, others argue that Mr. Odunsi had distanced himself from his son during childhood, leading to the apparent breakdown in their relationship.
A message attributed to Mr. Odunsi has surfaced, in which he reportedly expressed regret over past actions and sought reconciliation.
“I’m sorry I abandoned him when he was little,” a message allegedly from Mr. Odunsi reads.
However, some individuals familiar with the family’s history dispute these claims. A Facebook user, Segun Ben-Ajayi, alleges that Mr. Odunsi was the one who raised Asake alone after his mother left when he was just three years old.
He further asserts that Asake, now enjoying global fame, has instead chosen to associate with his mother and even adopted her name as his stage name.
“He abandoned the father who raised him and took the name of the mother who left him at a young age,” Ben-Ajayi claimed.
Public Reactions and Industry Silence
The revelations have sparked mixed reactions on social media. Some argue that Asake should set aside past grievances and assist his father, while others insist that if the abandonment claims are true, the artist is not obligated to extend support.
The situation has also reignited conversations on parental responsibility and the long-term effects of broken family ties.
Despite the growing debate, Asake has yet to publicly respond to the allegations. His management team and record label have also remained silent on the matter.
As the controversy continues to unfold, it underscores the complexity of personal relationships in the public eye, particularly when past family conflicts resurface amidst newfound success.
Whether Asake will address the situation remains uncertain, but the story has once again highlighted the deep emotional scars that unresolved family issues can leave behind.