Biafra: Civil war scandalized my youth, I ate lizards – Charly Boy recounts

Veteran singer Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, has recounted some painful memories of the Nigerian Civil War.

In a bid to commemorate Biafran Day, Charly Boy narrated how the war scandalized his youth, causing him to eat lizards for protein. He noted that he and many others are lucky to be alive following the millions of people who died during the war.

Taking to his social media page, Charly Boy noted the traumatic experience of seeing lifeless bodies around, as several people died from starvation.

Charly Boy raised concerns over the harsh reality of the post-war era for the Easterners while praising the resilient spirit of the Igbos that saw them bounce back after the war.

He wrote, “30th May. Biafran Day

“The Nigerian Civil War (67-70) scandalized my youth. As a teenager, it was mother luck that kept some of us alive. I saw far too many dead bodies everywhere, mostly from starvation.

“Every day was like one’s last. Even with some food relief from The Red Cross, some of us ate lizards as our protein. It was hell. I will never forget.

“By the time the war was over, our Eastern Igbo brothers were all given £20 to rebuild their lives regardless of how many billions they had before the war.

“Lessons Learned: Life is about navigating through hardships, bouncing back from setbacks, and maintaining a positive outlook no matter the circumstances. Resilience refers to the ability to use personal, dogged qualities to withstand pressure. That our Igbo brothers have in abundance.

“Hail Biafra.”