“I’ve Been a Thief” — Charlie Boy Admits to White-Collar Crime in US

Veteran Nigerian entertainer and activist, Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charlie Boy, has opened up about some of the darkest moments of his life, admitting that he was involved in crime during his younger years in the United States.

The outspoken social commentator made the revelation while speaking during an interview on Arise Prime Time, where he discussed his life journey, personal struggles and his forthcoming memoir titled 999.

Charlie Boy said the book contains a raw and honest account of his life, including painful and controversial experiences that shaped him into the man he is today.

According to him, he made several poor decisions in his younger years and engaged in activities he now looks back on with regret.

“I’ve made mistakes in my life,” he said.

“I’ve been a thief. I’ve done very risky things. I’ve done very stupid things, very foolish things. In fact, I have no business being here with you tonight, but I guess there’s a purpose for my life.”

The activist said his years in America were filled with reckless choices, including involvement in financial crimes.

“I was doing white-collar crime when I was in America. I was about 25 years old. I was doing a lot of stupid stuff. That’s why I say I’ve been there.”

Charlie Boy explained that rather than hide those parts of his story, he chose to document them fully in his memoir to show his complete journey—from rebellion and mistakes to transformation and self-discovery.

He described 999 as a brutally honest account of his life, saying readers should expect nothing less than the truth.

“I don’t leave anything out. The only few things I left out were because I genuinely couldn’t remember them. Otherwise, everything is there.”

The media personality also explained the meaning behind the title of the book, saying it represents a fresh phase in his life and a complete shift from the controversial image many Nigerians have associated with him over the years.

“I’ve been smart, I’ve been stupid, I’ve been foolish. Old things have passed away. This is a new beginning for me. All I want now is peace and tranquillity.”

Charlie Boy noted that age and life experiences have changed his priorities significantly. According to him, he no longer seeks chaos or unnecessary battles but now values peace, discipline and mental well-being.

“Before, I was always asking, ‘Where is the trouble? Let’s go there.’ Right now, I know how to shut off stress. I’m a sleep professor. I exercise, I watch what I eat, the company I keep and even what I watch on television because I don’t want anything disturbing my spirit.”

He also spoke about his battle with prostate cancer, describing it as a life-changing experience that pushed him to become a source of support for men dealing with health struggles.

Charlie Boy said many Nigerian men suffer in silence because of cultural expectations that discourage vulnerability.

“I wanted to free a lot of men because we’ve been brainwashed into believing men don’t cry and shouldn’t talk about what they’re going through.

“After my surgery, I spent almost two years speaking with complete strangers who called me for advice. They trusted me enough to tell me very intimate things.”

On national issues, the veteran activist expressed concern over the state of the country but maintained hope in Nigeria’s future.

He said despite the economic hardship and rising frustration among citizens, he believes the younger generation still holds the key to meaningful change.

“No matter how dark the tunnel is, I still believe the salvation of this country lies in the hands of young people.”

Charlie Boy also reflected on his relationship with his late father, former Supreme Court Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, revealing that much of his rebellious lifestyle was driven by his desire to create his own identity outside his father’s influence.