Charly Boy: I’m an activist because I don’t want men to go thru’ what I went thru

Renowned Nigerian song writer, political activist and health advocate, Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy has explained his reason for being an activist.

Charly Boy disclosed this in an interview with Arise News on Friday, July 12, 2024.

The singer stated categorically that his personal struggles are reasons behind his activism which he seeks to protect men from.

Charles said: “I am an activist because I don’t want men to go through what I went through.”

Charly, on reflecting on his own journey, spoke straightforwardly about the philosophical impact his personal health had on him.

“For what I’ve been through, I would rather not have many men go through that,” said the activist, emphatically.

His experiences have played a pivotal role in shaping his advocacy, driving him to raise awareness and support others facing similar struggles.

The activist candidly spoke about the profound impact his health challenges had on his life, aiming to inspire others to be more forthcoming.

His advocacy is deeply rooted in encouraging men to confront and discuss their health concerns openly and honestly.

“I encourage a lot of men to be more open and trusting about their mental and physical health issues,” he explained.

Charly Boy criticize the pressure on men’s health

The activist emphasized the crucial role of openness and trust when addressing health issues, drawing from his personal experiences.

He criticized societal expectations that often pressure men to conceal their emotions, asserting that such attitudes contribute to larger health problems.

“We have this thing ‘men don’t cry’, they are supposed to hide their emotions. I don’t believe in that,” he declared.

The musician showed his concern for men who have no one to confide in, not even in their wives.

“I’ve met strangers who have opened up to me, who tell me a lot of intimate things”, he said.

“That’s kind of sad,” he lamented, underlining the need for more open dialogue in relationships.

About the Activist’s Foundation

His foundation targets creating a platform to help and promulgate enlightenment for men circumnavigating health challenges all over Nigeria.

“We’re partnering with hospitals and doctors to raise funds for initial testing,” he said, stating their passion to ease financial obstacles to healthcare.

He credited his hope to encounters with young Nigerians making positive impacts, emphasizing their potential to drive meaningful change.

Charly Boy voiced his hope about the Giant of Africa’s future, especially in its upcoming youths, encourages them to be more of an activist.

“The salvation of this country lies in the hands of its exceptional young people,” he proclaimed.

Lastly, he pointed to the importance of friendship and transparency in enhancing a long lasting and healthy relationship.

He cited his 47-year marriage as a case study, stating how sincere communication and support has been the basis of their marriage.

His unwavering commitment to openness, trust, and community support continues to inspire and positively impact those around him.

“Our goal is to direct support where it’s needed most,” he outlined ongoing efforts to empower men to prioritize their health.

About Charly Boy

Charly Boy, born Charles Chukwuemeka Oputa, is a Nigerian entertainer and activist renowned for his eccentric persona and unorthodox methods of advocating for social and political change.

Also known as CB, His Royal Punkness, and Area Fada, he has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s cultural landscape.

Early Life

Charly Boy, the second son of former Supreme Court Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, was born into a Catholic household in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.

His parents encouraged their children to express themselves freely, but Oputa’s enigmatic character often kept his age a contentious mystery.

Music Career

In the 1980s, Charly Boy ventured into the music industry. His unconventional appearance nearly denied him a record deal, but he persisted.

His punk persona—complete with leather jackets, mohawks, and African pop influences—earned him the title “His Royal Punkness.”

The singer’s album 1990 (released in 1988) used music to challenge Nigeria’s corrupt military government, much like Fela Kuti did.

Activism

Charly Boy’s activism knows no bounds. He has fearlessly championed causes close to his heart, using his platform to address societal issues.

His resilience and commitment stem from personal experiences, as he once stated, “I am an activist because I don’t want men to go through what I went through”

Who is an activist?

An activist is someone who advocates or practices activism—a person who uses or supports strong actions, such as public protests, to bring about political or social change.

These individuals are passionate about specific causes and work actively to make a difference.

Whether it’s environmental issues, civil rights, or other social justice concerns, activists play a crucial role in shaping our world.

Successful activism campaign

Black Lives Matter

Originating in the US, this global human rights movement campaigns against violence and systemic racism towards Black people and other people of color.

With the killing of  George Floyd by a US police officer in May 2020, the Black Lives Matter movement is an important one to support right now.

Activists Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors and Opal Tometi created the Black Lives Matter Hashtag in 2013.

It was part of their response to the acquittal of George Zimmerman for the killing of African-American teen Trayvon Martin.

Although it started in the US, Black Lives Matter is now a global human rights movement.

It campaigns to end violence and systemic racism towards Black people and other people of colour.

Indigenous Land Rights Movement

Over decades, Indigenous communities in Australia fought for their land rights.

Girls’ Rights to Education

Malala Yousafzai, despite the Taliban’s ban on girls attending school in Pakistan, courageously advocated for girls’ education.

Activist Movement Against Apartheid

South Africa’s apartheid policy of the mid-20th century sanctioned racial segregation.

It barred non-white South Africans from political and economic equality.

People held strikes and protests against their government’s apartheid policy for decades.

This, along with economic sanctions, led to the end of apartheid in the 90s.

Nelson Mandela played a central role in the movement, and spent 27 years in prison for it.

After the dismantling of apartheid, Mandela became South Africa’s first democratically elected leader.

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