Residents of Isale Eko, Lagos, childhood friends, and fans of Afrobeats star Asake have expressed their disappointment over allegations that the singer abandoned his ailing father, Fatai Odunsi. Many believe that despite any personal differences, Asake should support his father, who has been battling a stroke since 2022.
Community Voices Discontent
A visit to Asake’s childhood neighborhood in Idiomo, Isale Eko, revealed widespread dissatisfaction. Residents pointed out that the singer, born Ahmed Ololade, had grown up in the area, and many expected him to care for his family now that he is successful.
“We all know his story. It is Ahmed we called him. Odunsi is his father,” said an elderly woman who refused to disclose her name. She expressed disappointment in Asake’s actions and criticized him harshly.
Another resident, Kubirat, noted that while she did not personally know Asake as a child, the general mood in the community was one of disappointment.
She said, “Everyone here is talking about it. People feel let down.”
At Odunsi’s current residence in Adeniyi-Adele, his wife refused to comment, but a family relative, speaking anonymously, said, “Even if Asake had issues with his father, success should bring understanding. There is a point in life where you overlook certain things.”
Public Appeals and Accusations
Amid the controversy, Asake’s family released a public appeal, urging him to support his father and take responsibility for his alleged 11-year-old daughter, Zeenat. They also expressed willingness to conduct a DNA test to confirm her paternity.
A woman in the video pleaded, “If you truly don’t want to take care of him, at least buy a house worth ₦50 million in his name so he can survive on the rent. Even if Nigerians donate ₦10 billion to this man, just ₦1 million from Asake would make him happier.”
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Fans React on Social Media
The controversy sparked mixed reactions online. Some sympathized with Odunsi, insisting Asake should support his father, while others defended the singer, accusing his family of exploiting his wealth.
X user @SarahOmo wrote, “Asake’s response is so hurtful. His father may have made mistakes, but he’s still his dad.”
@ecomohh suggested a long-term solution, saying, “Asake is super rich now; he should place his dad on a salary or open a business for him.”
Others defended the singer. @it_Rutie tweeted, “His father and family are opportunists. They ignored him when he was broke, and now they want to feed where they didn’t work.”
@AKIODED added, “The son you didn’t provide for, now he must provide for you? Parents should take care of their children so they have moral ground to expect support later.”
Some also criticized the manner in which the family made their appeal. @bayo noted, “This video reeks of emotional blackmail. They even involved the baby mama for public sympathy.”
Facebook user Sheriffdeen Olorunfemi, who claims to be close to Asake’s family, urged the singer to reconsider his stance. “He inherited all his father’s talents in singing and drumming. If he wants to continue prospering, he should not neglect his father,” he wrote.
Actress Dayo Amusa Defends Asake
Nollywood actress Dayo Amusa weighed in on the controversy, emphasizing that parental rejection can leave lasting wounds.
She wrote, “When Asake covered his face in tattoos, I remarked that he was masking a pain he wasn’t ready to confront. Fame doesn’t heal childhood wounds. Some wounds money cannot fix—only deep, intentional healing can.”
She urged parents to be present in their children’s lives, stating, “A child who feels truly seen and loved at home has less to prove to the world.”
Asake Allegedly Accepts Responsibility
While Asake and his management have remained silent on the issue, Olorunfemi claimed on Facebook that the singer has agreed to take responsibility for his father’s medical bills.
“He accepted responsibility for his mistakes, and Pupsy will be taken to Lekki Hospital next week! He agreed to do whatever it takes for Pupsy,” he wrote.
Despite this development, public debate continues over Asake’s role in his family’s welfare and the ethical questions surrounding fame, family obligations, and financial support.