Billionaire's Son Raheem Okoya Speaks Out on Wealth, Career, and Media Portrayals
Raheem Okoya, the 22-year-old son of renowned billionaire industrialist Razaq Okoya, has firmly addressed persistent allegations that his affluent lifestyle is merely a product of his father's immense wealth. In a candid interview with BBC News Yoruba, the Executive Director of Eleganza Industries asserted that he earns his own income and has secured independent investors for his burgeoning music career.
"I Work and Earn My Salary," Says Okoya
"I'm not just spending the chairman's money; I work. I earn a salary. I have investors. People believe in my music and put money behind it," Raheem declared, pushing back against what he describes as widespread misconceptions. He emphasized that his financial independence is a result of diligent effort, not familial privilege.
Raheem detailed his extensive preparation for his current executive position, revealing that he spent a full decade understudying his father, Razaq Okoya, who built the Eleganza brand from the ground up. "I've been learning this position my whole life. From when I was in school, I've been shadowing my dad. It's not an overnight thing. It's been 10 years in the making," he explained, highlighting the long-term commitment required for his role.
Family Values and the Challenge of Youth
According to Raheem, his father, who was not born into wealth, has consistently instilled core values of hard work and financial discipline in his children. "My dad wasn't born rich. He tries to instill those values in his kids. He wants his kids to also be able to work and build a fortune rather than just spend and destroy," he added, underscoring the family's emphasis on sustainable success.
Despite his thorough preparation, Raheem admitted that his young age presents significant challenges in the business world. "It's definitely challenging. It's a heavy responsibility. People already look at you. You're young. They already want to doubt you. You always have to prove that you know what you're talking about," he said, acknowledging the scrutiny he faces as a young executive in a high-profile family.
Music Passion and Media Criticism
Beyond his corporate responsibilities, Raheem spoke passionately about his love for music, crediting Fuji legend King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as K1, as a major influence during his upbringing. "K1 is a legend. He used to ring in the corridors of my house," he recalled, illustrating the deep cultural roots of his musical interests.
He identified his father as his primary motivation, stating, "I love my dad so much. He's my number one hero, my mentor. I just hope I can really, really make him proud one day." This personal drive fuels both his business and artistic endeavors.
Raheem also addressed what he perceives as unfair media portrayals, accusing some outlets of disseminating "fake news" to cast him in a negative light. "I don't like fake news. I hate fake news. The media likes to put me up as a villain. They know what gets people riled up and moving. It's not always the truth," he criticized. He elaborated that such reports often distort minor details or completely alter narratives about him, which he finds "painful" and misleading to the public.
