Veteran entertainer, Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, has reacted to former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s description of him as an “ashawo” during the London launch of his memoir, 999.

Obasanjo, who served as the chief host of the September 29 event in London, was seen in a video teasing Charly Boy with several descriptions, including “thief”, “barawo”, “drug addict” and “ashawo”.

The video later circulated on social media, prompting reactions from some Nigerians over Obasanjo’s use of the term “ashawo” in reference to the entertainer.

Reacting in a post on X on Friday, Charly Boy clarified that Obasanjo was not accusing him of prostitution, describing the remark as part of their longstanding relationship.

According to Charly Boy, Obasanjo had also spoken positively about aspects of his life, particularly his relationship with his late father, Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, and his mother.

Obasanjo had previously described Charly Boy as a “jagajaga boy” while acknowledging the care he showed towards his late father.

The former president also wrote the foreword to Charly Boy’s memoir, 999, and served as chief host at the book’s Nigerian launch before attending the London edition.

Charly Boy said he therefore viewed the latest remark as part of their long-standing relationship, while jokingly rejecting the “ashawo” description.

The entertainer’s reaction has since generated further discussion online following the circulation of the video from the London memoir launch.