Raheem Okoya, the son of billionaire industrialist Rasaq Okoya, has pushed back against claims that his father’s wealth solely funds his lifestyle and career.

In an interview with BBC News Yoruba, the young executive and aspiring musician stressed that he is financially independent and actively building his own path.

“I earn my own money. I have a salary. People are investing in my music because they believe in what I’m doing,” he said, explaining that he has secured investors who support his creative ambitions.

Raheem credited his upbringing for shaping his mindset, noting that his father was not born into wealth but built his empire through hard work.

According to him, that lesson has influenced how he approaches both business and music.

“My dad wasn’t born wealthy. He worked hard for everything he achieved and wants us to understand the importance of building our own paths, not just spending,” he explained.

He revealed that he spent nearly a decade preparing for his current corporate responsibilities, learning directly under his father’s mentorship rather than relying on instant privilege.

“I’ve been learning and preparing for this position for about 10 years. I’ve followed my dad closely and studied the business,” Raheem said.

Despite his achievements, he acknowledged the pressure that comes with holding a high-level role at a young age.

“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 admitted.

Beyond business, Raheem also addressed media narratives surrounding his music journey.

Growing up in a home frequently visited by Fuji icon King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, he developed a passion for music early on.

However, he expressed frustration with what he described as misleading portrayals in the press.

“I don’t like fake news. I hate fake news. It cuts in my head. 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 said.

“They will take a little thing or completely change the narrative and perspective on me. It’s not nice. It’s painful,” he added

Despite public scrutiny, Raheem says he remains focused on carving out his own success and making his father proud.

“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,” he concluded.

Watch the video below

“ I’m 22 years old, I’m also the executive director of Eleganza. I hate fake news, and how the media likes to make people h8te me, it’s painful. […] I’m not just spending my father’s money, I work too. I have a salary.”

- Razak Okoya’s son, Raheem pic.twitter.com/VgS8DV8oRM

— Pulse Nigeria (@PulseNigeria247) February 17, 2026