By Fr Samuel Okpara, MSP.
Those who conclude that Ozonna Soludo, the first son of Anambra State Governor, is useless or a disgrace to his parents should remember the story of the living legend, Mr Charles Oputa, popularly known as charlyboyareafada.
Charly Boy also came from a wealthy and politically prominent family. He was the son of the late Chukwudifu Oputa, one of Nigeria’s most respected jurists. Yet, when he chose a path different from what many expected—embracing music, entertainment, unconventional fashion, and at times cross-dressing—many dismissed him as a rebellious rascal who had brought shame to his family.
He was equally outspoken on political and social issues, often expressing views that differed from those of many around him. Over the years, however, he carved out a unique identity for himself. The family name is still very much on the lips of many because of him.
Whether one agrees with all his methods or not, Charly Boy has become one of Nigeria’s most recognisable entertainers and social activists, known for speaking on behalf of ordinary citizens and the oppressed. He is successful in his own unique way, with access to presidents, wealthy men, women, and many successful people you can think of in Nigeria and beyond.
At over seventy years of age, he remains relevant in public discourse and continues to tell his story through his forthcoming memoir, 999: The Memoir of Charly Boy—A Story. A Legacy. A Rebellion in Ink.
The point is not that Ozonna Soludo will become another Charly Boy. It is not to conclude that history will repeat itself or is repeating itself. No. They are different individuals with different journeys.
The lesson is that society has a habit of judging people too early simply because they refuse to fit into familiar boxes. We forget that the “normal” for some people is boring. That success has always been defined a particular way does not mean it will always be defined that way.
History repeatedly reminds us that today’s “black sheep” sometimes becomes tomorrow’s respected voice. Likewise, some who appear successful today may fade into obscurity. Time has a way of revealing the true worth of a person’s choices.
So, instead of hastily writing people off because they choose to be different through a different path, perhaps we should allow them the freedom to become who they are meant to be. Society has its own definition of success, but life is far too broad to fit everyone into the same mould. Some people simply can not be contained by the boxes society creates.
As for Ozonna, time will tell his own story. Until then, it is wiser to judge people by the content of their character than by how closely they conform to our expectations.
As for today, like or hate Ozo. Call him crazy, agege or baby oku; you can’t ignore him. He has refused to be intimidated into oblivion. That is courage! That is authenticity and sincerity. If you take half of these qualities and apply them positively, letting go of fear and “what will people say” syndrome, there may be hardly a limit to what you can achieve in life.
