Alhaji Munir Balogun, the father of Nigerian music sensation Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, recently shared insights in an interview with Punch about his approach to handling criticism directed at his son, particularly from Davido’s fans.
During the conversation with Ayoola Olasupo, Alhaji Balogun emphasized the importance of staying calm and composed when facing such attacks, advising Wizkid to focus on his craft and avoid unnecessary confrontations.
He also discussed his family’s tradition of generosity and their move from Somade to Tafawa Balewa. Reflecting on their old neighborhood, he mentioned that while they no longer visit Somade, he frequently spends time with his brother, who lives in “Small London” in Surulere, where they catch up and share stories.
Alhaji Balogun’s advice to Wizkid mirrors his own demeanor, encouraging peace and focusing on positivity amid fan rivalry.
You still attend prayers at Oluwaseyi Mosque in that neighborhood, even though you no longer live there. What keeps you going back?
Our house is in Tafawa Balewa, and it’s close to that mosque. I used to live in the area but have since moved. However, my daughter still stays there, and everything is still in place. There’s no reason for me to leave the area. We haven’t given the house to anyone, and we don’t rent it out, so I’m always around. Plus, as I mentioned earlier, my brother lives in Small London.
In a post on X (Twitter), Wizkid mentioned that your generosity inspires him to give back to his childhood community. What’s your response to that?
That’s true because it’s important to give back to the community. No one should be forced to do it; it should come naturally. Children often follow the example set by their parents. Some people have more than enough money but struggle to share even a little. That’s not how our family operates. We’re always ready to help with what we have. We don’t like to see people suffering, especially when someone says they haven’t eaten all day—that deeply moves me, and I feel the need to give them something so they can eat. It’s just our nature, and we’ve always treated people well, even when things weren’t as good as they are now. That’s how I see it. As a Muslim, my faith teaches me to give to others, and I believe in living by that principle.
Now that Wizkid is big and famous, do you still advise him on certain things?
We talk frequently, and he’s never far from me. He’s very close to his family and takes family matters seriously. If I need to discuss something, I call him, and he does the same. He’s always in touch and considers family his top priority.
Wizkid and Davido have always been having banter for some time now. What do you think about the entire situation?
Yes, I’ve seen it. I came across it on Facebook or Instagram and read through everyone’s comments.
What are your thoughts on the situation, and have you offered any advice to Wizkid about it?
I have advised my son not to pay attention to what Davido’s supporters are saying. The supporters are only looking for what they will say to collect money and all of that. They are just looking for what they are going to eat and I told him not to pay much attention to them. I’ve told my son to take things easy with them and overlook whatever they say because I don’t blame them.
You lost your wife recently. What do you miss about her?
You know we were husband and wife, and I don’t have any other wife. When situations like this arise, you can imagine what goes through the minds of both partners. We understand that man proposes, but God disposes, and we cannot blame God for what happens.
How has the family been coping with the loss?
We’re managing the situation and leaving everything in God’s hands.