TheCable

Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charlie Boy, says he has quit alcohol, smoking, drugs and some of the notorious acts associated with his name in the past.

The celebrity also pointed out that though his 37-year-old marriage has not been perfect, it has been a blessing and a learning source for others.

He said this at a meeting organised by rotary club of Asokoro District 9125 at Chelsea Hotel, Wuse 2, Abuja, on Wednesday.

“I don’t abuse my body anymore; I don’t do casual sex, I have quit smoking, alcohol; but I do a lot of exercise,” he said

“I have been married for 37 years and I must say that, though it is not easy, I am still enjoying it.

“Marriage management requires tolerance, patience and endurance, because it is very difficult to find a perfect partner for marriage. When a married partner sees the other as a subject or subordinate, then there is bound to be misunderstanding.”

The ‘area father’, as he is called, said longevity runs in his family, as his grandfather and his father lived long, while his 94-year-old mother is still alive.

“I come from a family with history of long life,” he said.

“My grandfather died at that age of 120 years; my father died at the age 97 last year and my mother, who is still alive, is 94 years old now.

“I am 63 years old and have nine children and 14 grandchildren.”

He further said that Charlie Boy and Charles Oputa were two different personalities, revealing that he is now very spiritual.

“Charlie Boy does not come to my house; he doesn’t live with me. It is just a character,” he said.

“I am a spiritual person and that is what made me stay grounded as a father and a husband. Through Buddhism, I have learnt to be contented. The practice of Buddhism has helped me have peace of mind and containment in life.”

Commenting on his relationship with his late father, who was an eminent jurist, Charlie Boy said even though the late justice of the supreme court did not totally accept his controversial lifestyle, he still allowed him to have his freedom.

Oputa said God had endowed everyone with a talent and advised parents not to force their children to follow certain lines in life, which could be contrary to their belief.

“God has given everybody something; you have to look for it,” he said.

“I am an advocate of allowing children to grow the way they want, but with guidance, so they do not lose track of what they want to be.

“I always want to do what I think it’s right and also add value to my environment.”