In the ever-evolving saga surrounding fast-rising Nigerian artist Asake, his father, Mr. Fatai Odunsi, has taken his demands to the next level. Claiming to be the biological father of the chart-topping singer, Mr. Odunsi is now calling for an N50 million house in Isale Eko, complete with rental income opportunities to support him. Adding fuel to the fire, he has also requested a DNA test for Zeenat, an 11-year-old girl allegedly fathered by Asake, who he claims has been abandoned.
This development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing controversy, as Mr. Odunsi continues to plead for financial and emotional support from his son, who has risen to prominence in Nigeria’s music scene with hits like “Skeletun” and collaborations with global superstars.
The drama surrounding Asake and his father first gained traction when Kemi Filani reported that Mr. Odunsi had appealed to Nigerians for assistance. In a distressing video, the singer’s father tearfully pleaded for funds to cover his medical expenses, revealing that he had suffered a debilitating stroke that left him paralyzed.
At the time, conflicting narratives emerged about Mr. Odunsi’s relationship with his famous son. Some sources painted him as absent from Asake’s life during his childhood, having abandoned him at a young age. Others countered, arguing that Mr. Odunsi was actively involved in raising his son and that it was Asake’s mother who showered him with love and support.
Regardless of the truth, the singer’s father has now shifted his focus toward specific monetary demands, adding a layer of complexity to the unfolding narrative.
In a newly released video, representatives of Mr. Odunsi’s family presented a detailed request to Asake. They are asking for an N50 million house located in Isale Eko, a historic neighborhood in Lagos known for its vibrant culture and rental potential. The idea is that the property would generate regular income for Mr. Odunsi, alleviating his financial burdens.
Additionally, the family is pressing for a DNA test to settle the matter of Zeenat, the 11-year-old girl allegedly fathered by Asake. According to the family spokesperson, the child’s mother has agreed to participate in the test, which could clarify the paternity dispute once and for all.
The plea was delivered by a family representative, who implored Asake to step up and fulfill his responsibilities. “I’m begging you, Ololade, Mr. Money,” the speaker said, addressing the singer by his real name. “Even if Nigerians donate ₦10 billion to this man, just ₦1 million from Asake would make him happier. Please take care of your father. If you don’t want to support him directly, buy him a house in Isale Eko where he can earn rent to survive. Also, if you are in doubt about Zeenat, the mother has agreed to a DNA test.”
So far, Asake has refrained from publicly responding to the demands. However, he appeared to address the earlier viral video indirectly through his music. In a recent track, the singer reflected on the pressures placed upon him by those around him, including family members and critics.
The lyrics of the song encapsulate his frustration and resolve:
“You can’t please the world. Whatever you do, do it for God and always remember the day you’ll die and meet your God. My people, can you see? Even my father wants to cajole me. I used to press money for him, and I did it with one mind. No one can quench my fire. God is the one that is taking me ahead in life.”
These words suggest that Asake feels overwhelmed by the expectations placed on him, both personally and professionally. He emphasizes the importance of staying true to himself and seeking guidance from above, rather than succumbing to external pressures.
Asake’s rise to fame has been meteoric. Emerging from the bustling streets of Lagos, he burst onto the scene with infectious Afrobeats melodies that resonated with audiences across Nigeria and beyond. Songs like “Skeletun” and “Omo Ope” catapulted him into the spotlight, earning him comparisons to Nigeria’s biggest musical icons.
However, the accompanying spotlight has also brought its fair share of challenges. The singer’s personal life has become increasingly scrutinized, with various family members stepping forward to claim portions of his success.
Mr. Odunsi’s demands represent just the latest chapter in this unfolding saga. While some argue that Asake has a moral obligation to support his father, others question whether the singer owes financial responsibility to someone who reportedly abandoned him during his formative years.
Similarly, the DNA test for Zeenat raises questions about Asake’s involvement in the girl’s life. If the allegations prove true, it could complicate matters further, forcing the singer to confront obligations he may not have anticipated.
For Asake, navigating this minefield presents a daunting challenge. On one hand, he must contend with the expectations of his family and broader society, which often equate success with generosity. On the other hand, he must protect his mental and emotional well-being, ensuring that his artistic pursuits remain intact.
Artists like Asake frequently find themselves caught between the demands of their craft and the realities of familial duty. The pressure to succeed financially while maintaining authenticity can be overwhelming, especially when the stakes involve loved ones and community expectations.
As the dust settles on this latest round of demands, Asake’s next moves will be closely watched. Will he acquiesce to his father’s requests, offering financial or logistical support? Or will he continue to assert his independence, focusing on his art and leaving personal matters unresolved?
One thing is certain: the intersection of fame and family obligations is a complex terrain, fraught with emotional landmines. For Asake, finding balance will require wisdom, patience, and perhaps a bit of divine intervention.
In the meantime, the world waits with bated breath, eager to see how this chapter of his story unfolds.
