Fatai Okoya says choice of spouse led to feud with father

Fatai Okoya, the eldest son of billionaire industrialist Chief Razaq Akanni Okoya, has said his choice of spouse led to the breakdown of his relationship with his father more than four decades ago.

Fatai made the revelation during a live interview following an open letter in which he appealed to his father for reconciliation. He explained that his decision to marry a woman his father disapproved of created a rift that has persisted for more than 40 years.

Reminiscing about their relationship before the disagreement, Fatai said he was once his father’s favourite son. He recalled that he used to wear his father’s clothes, adding that the industrialist admired such playful acts.

However, their relationship reportedly deteriorated after Fatai chose to marry against his father’s wishes. He said the decision, which he made when he was young and in love, eventually resulted in their prolonged separation.

Fatai also admitted that he had siphoned some money from his father’s company but maintained that the amount was not substantial. He did not disclose the exact sum involved or provide further details about the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Beyond the disagreement, Fatai expressed sadness that his children had never met their grandfather because of the longstanding family feud. He said his desire for reconciliation was driven by the need to rebuild family ties and give his children the opportunity to know their grandfather.

He stressed that his appeal was not motivated by a desire for wealth or inheritance but by a longing for peace and family unity. The disclosure has generated reactions on social media, with Nigerians sharing opinions on parental authority, marriage choices, forgiveness and reconciliation.

Chief Okoya, the founder of Eleganza Group, is a prominent figure in Nigeria’s business community. As of the time of this report, there had been no official response from him or his representatives to Fatai’s appeal, leaving uncertainty over whether the decades-long rift will finally be resolved.