Asake Declares Unwavering Loyalty to Olamide: 'Baddo Stays Baddo Even If I Become President'
Afrobeats sensation Ahmed Ololade, widely known as Asake, has emphatically reaffirmed his loyalty to his former label boss and mentor, Olamide, stating that his perception of the rapper remains unchanged despite his own skyrocketing fame and success. In a recent interview with YouTuber Korty EO, the 'Sungba' crooner reflected on his career journey, personal struggles, and key relationships, offering a candid glimpse into his life beyond the stage.
Unbreakable Bond with Olamide
Asake made it clear that no level of achievement could alter how he views Olamide, affectionately called Baddo. "Till the world ends, Baddo will always be Baddo. The way I saw Baddo yesterday is the same way I see him today, and that will be the same way I will see him tomorrow, even if I become the president of America or Zimbabwe. Baddo will always be Baddo," he declared. This statement comes amid past speculation about a fallout between the two artists, which began in December 2024 when Asake removed YBNL from his Instagram bio and unfollowed Olamide, sparking rumors of a split.
The development triggered widespread reactions across the music industry, with superstar Wizkid posting, "Love baddo! 4 L (for life) tin," on December 26, 2024, a move many interpreted as a show of support for Olamide. Olamide responded at the time, writing, "Eleniyan! Love always brother." Although neither publicly addressed the situation in detail, reports suggested that Asake's contract with YBNL may have expired, with claims that he opted for independence rather than renewing the deal.
Reflections on Early Struggles and Ambition
Before the reported split, Asake had repeatedly credited Olamide for changing his life, revealing in earlier interviews that he had waited years for the opportunity to join the label. "You don't understand, for somebody you look up to, somebody you respect, somebody you've been longing to see, to ask you that question. I told him that I was ready," he had said. Reflecting on his early struggles, Asake described 2020 as a defining moment. "2020 was a serious year. Life humbled me so much. You know when God puts something sweet in your mouth and removes it? That was what happened in 2020. At that time, I did not know that God was building me," he shared.
The singer also discussed how his ambition pushed him to seek opportunities abroad. "Before I travelled, Los Angeles was a place I liked. Even when I was with my friends, I told them that I was going to leave this country and go to California. So, I did not overthink it. When I got to California, I was just like, bro, I will be here. Let me just live my dream," he recounted.
Family Dynamics and Reconciliation
Asake opened up about his upbringing and family dynamics, noting that he used to be closer to his mother. "I used to be with my mum a lot because we understood each other more than my dad and I did," he said. His comments follow earlier tensions with his father, Fatai Odunsi, also known as Malo, who had in 2025 accused the singer of neglect. However, the situation was later resolved after his father confirmed that Asake had stepped in to support him. "Asake said he will do everything that I want. We have settled; no more problems," Odunsi stated.
In March 2026, Asake drew public attention again after gifting his father a 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado reportedly worth about N130 million, days after presenting his mother with a Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon G63 said to be valued at about N311 million. The gestures initially sparked debate online but later shifted to praise from fans.
Faith and Future Focus
Beyond music, Asake has shown a growing focus on his spiritual life. He recently travelled to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, where he performed Umrah during Ramadan, with videos showing him praying at sacred sites alongside other worshippers. The trip sparked reactions online, with fans praising his commitment to faith. Speaking on success, Asake noted that wealth gives him a sense of freedom. "Right now in Lagos, I have five cars. I like money so much because I like freedom. Not like it gives me everything I need in life, but at least it solves 80 per cent of the things I need to solve," he explained.
Asake's journey from controversy to celebration highlights his resilience and dedication to both his craft and personal relationships, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the global Afrobeats scene.
