Fame is a double-edged sword. While every entertainer aspires to be in the spotlight, relentless public scrutiny can be emotionally exhausting. This is what comes to mind when I see Asake trending in the news over the past few days.
Despite his cheerful demeanor in videos, it’s evident that Asake is enduring one of the most challenging periods of his life.
Recently, a man named Fatai Odunsi publicly claimed to be Asake’s father, accusing the musician of abandonment and lack of financial support.
Odunsi, who is reportedly battling a stroke, alleged that Asake has neglected him despite his success.
In response, Asake—true to his Yoruba upbringing—chose not to directly criticize or attack his father. Instead, he addressed the allegations through his preferred medium: music.
In a heartfelt video, he sang, “My own father wants to cajole me, and I have sent so much money. I have struggled for so many years, but they want to make life tire me.”
Surprisingly, rather than earning sympathy, his response invited even more criticism.
Social media users, including some celebrities, took turns berating him.
Seeing the relentless attacks, I couldn’t help but think, that Mr. Fatai Odunsi and his family have achieved their aim. They have succeeded in making ‘life tire him,’ just as Asake lamented.
Who is Asake, and What Has He Done Wrong?
Many people became familiar with Asake in 2022 after Olamide Badoo was featured on his song Omo Ope. His fame skyrocketed when Olamide signed him to his record label, but beyond the superstar image, there is a deeper story—one of struggle, pain, and perseverance.
Asake, born Ahmed Ololade, did not have the guidance of a father growing up. He navigated life largely on his own. While some may argue that suffering is a common experience, it is far more tragic when it results from neglect by those meant to provide love and support.
Unfortunately, many so-called parents never truly prepare for the responsibility of raising children. Some men contribute only biologically, showing no willingness to be present in their child’s life, yet they reappear years later, hoping to reap the rewards of their offspring’s success.
Looking at Asake’s lifestyle—his tattoos, drinking, and smoking—many assume it’s just a part of his brand. However, those who understand human behavior can recognize the telltale signs of someone masking deep emotional wounds. He is a young man who grew up with little affection and had to fight his way to the top.
Research has shown that children raised without responsible fathers often struggle with emotional scars, behavioral issues, academic setbacks, low self-esteem, difficulty in relationships, and an increased risk of substance abuse. Asake’s life exemplifies these statistics, making it clear that his father’s absence has left a huge void.
The Real Issue: Love or Money?
The truth is that Asake has done nothing wrong. He has spent his life searching for love and acceptance, only to be confronted with demands for financial support.
According to him, he has already sent money to his father, yet the demands continue. The harsh reality is that some family members only seek connections when money is involved.
True love isn’t conditional. No loving father would publicly shame his son, especially one who had to fend for himself for years.
Many commenting online also forget that Asake has not even spent five years at the top of his career—he is still finding his footing. Yet, instead of supporting him, his estranged father and family members seem more focused on what they can extract from him.
What Defines a Father?
The fact that Odunsi is Asake’s biological father does not entitle him to unquestioned financial support. Fatherhood is not just about reproduction—any animal can reproduce. What truly matters is the emotional, financial, and moral support provided during a child’s formative years. Asake owes nothing to those who ignored his struggles but now demand a share of his success.
The Way Forward
Before setting up cameras to demand money, Odunsi and his family must first offer Asake a sincere apology. It is not too late, but their remorse must be genuine—not just a tactic to manipulate him.
Asake had a difficult childhood and deserves love. His father should focus on rebuilding their relationship, treating him not as a celebrity but as Ahmed—the boy who needed a father’s care. The family must set aside his fame and wealth for now, prioritizing genuine connection. Once trust and love are reestablished, financial support will come naturally.
A Lesson for Fathers Everywhere
This situation should be a lesson to men everywhere: You cannot neglect your children and later demand a place in their lives once they succeed. Parenthood is a lifelong commitment, not a transactional relationship.
Men take responsibility. You cannot blackmail or guilt-trip your way into the lives of children you failed to nurture.
