Family Drama Unfolds as Asake’s Father Alleges Neglect Amidst Health Crisis
The ongoing family saga involving Afrobeats sensation Asake and his father, Fatai Odunsi, has taken a new twist as the singer’s family has finally spoken out about the controversy that has captured the attention of Nigerians.
The dispute went viral after a video surfaced online showing Mr. Odunsi appealing for financial assistance due to severe health issues. He disclosed that he has been battling a stroke since 2022 and lamented that his superstar son, Asake, has allegedly been ignoring his calls despite his deteriorating health.
Asake's Cryptic Response
In response to the allegations, Asake took to TikTok, sharing a cryptic message sung in Yoruba:
“You can’t please everyone; you can’t please the world. But anything you are doing, just do it for God.
My own father wants to cajole me, and I have sent so much money to him. I have struggled for so many years, but they want to make life tire me.”
While Asake’s message appeared defensive, it seemed to hint at unresolved personal struggles and perhaps an effort to justify his alleged silence towards his father’s plight.
Family Speaks Out
The saga escalated when Asake’s family released a video obtained by Vanguard on Saturday, not only addressing the allegations but also making shocking claims of their own. They accused the singer of neglecting his supposed daughter, Zeenat, and her mother.
In an emotional plea, a woman in the video said:
“I’m begging you, Ololade Mr. Money. Even if Nigerians donate ₦10bn to this man, just ₦1m 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.”
She went on to challenge Asake to take responsibility for the alleged 11-year-old daughter, Zeenat, and proposed a DNA test to confirm her paternity.
Opinion: Fame, Family, and the Weight of Responsibility
The unfolding drama is a bitter reminder of how fame can complicate personal relationships. It is understandable that Asake may feel overwhelmed by the expectations that come with success. But should success be a reason to neglect one’s family, especially during their darkest moments?
From the outside, the situation might seem like the classic case of “entitlement versus responsibility.” However, when health and survival are on the line, finding common ground becomes more important than pointing fingers.
If Asake truly believes he has done enough for his father, he should make his efforts known to the public. But if there are lingering doubts about his father’s welfare, why not make a gesture — not to appease public opinion, but to heal old wounds and strengthen family ties?
As for the allegations about neglecting his alleged daughter, Zeenat, a simple DNA test can lay that matter to rest. And if the result confirms the claim, then stepping up to his fatherly responsibilities becomes non-negotiable.
Ultimately, this dispute shines a harsh light on the harsh realities of fame and family expectations. Can Asake find a way to navigate the complexities of his rising stardom while remaining true to the values of family and responsibility? Only time will tell.
