Afrobeats superstar Ayo Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, is often the focus of media attention, but behind his fame lies a family whose generosity has long impacted their local community.
While discussions about Wizkid often revolve around his rivalry with fellow musician, Davido, residents of Somade Crescent, Surulere, Lagos, where Wizkid grew up, have shared a different narrative—one of kindness and empathy from the Balogun family.
Recently, a viral video showed Wizkid’s father, Alhaji Munir Balogun, distributing money to people, sparking reactions online.
However, for those who knew the Baloguns personally, this act of kindness was nothing new.
Saturday PUNCH learnt that the family was known for their compassion and commitment to helping others, traits which, according to residents, they exhibited long before Wizkid achieved global fame.
Mrs Joy Oritsesan, the chairperson of the Community Development Association for Somade Crescent, where the Baloguns used to live, described the family as selfless.
According to her, Wizkid’s parents were always involved in community activities, supporting their neighbours without hesitation. Oritsesan recalled how the family would voluntarily provide food and money to those in need, especially the security guards at the estate gate.
“They were always willing to help, even when they didn’t have to,” Oritsesan said. “Wizkid and his parents treated everyone with a smile and respect. I’ve known them for years, and they’ve never looked down on anyone despite their status.”
Oritsesan shared a story about a time when Wizkid’s family gave N10,000 each to more than 50 children under the age of 12. According to her, this act of kindness wasn’t done for publicity but out of a genuine desire to help. “It hurts me when people say negative things about them. They’re a good family, and it’s clear they’ve made a lasting impact on our community.”
The CDA chairperson recalled numerous instances when the Balogun family stepped in to help the community.
“Whenever we needed something on the street, we would reach out to them,” she said. “Even if Wizkid wasn’t around, we could always talk to his parents. They never turned us away. They were always willing to help.”
According to Oritsesan, Wizkid still visits the community occasionally, much to the delight of the residents. “Last December, he came and gave N10,000 to over 50 children under the age of 12. If a house had five children, that family received N50,000. They didn’t hand the money to me to distribute; they came themselves with their sister and shared it directly with the families. After finishing at Somade, they went to Small London to do the same.”
Despite Wizkid’s fame, Oritsesan stressed that the family’s generosity had remained constant. “Wizkid gives palliatives from time to time, and he visits the community at least three times a year. People often ask them for help, and no one ever comes back saying they weren’t assisted. I pray that the good that Wizkid and his family have done will multiply for them and their generations yet to come, in Jesus’ name.”
Kamil Ajiboluwa, the CDA chairman of Small London, another neighbourhood in Surulere, expressed similar sentiments. He noted that the community was always excited whenever Wizkid or his father visited. “His family has done a lot for us, but there are still some things we need,” Ajiboluwa said, appealing for assistance in providing solar lights for the community. “Some of the lights we have are no longer functioning, and there are areas that still need lighting.”
Ajiboluwa, like many others, acknowledged the contributions the Baloguns had made over the years. “Wizkid’s father is a blessing to this community. We are always happy to see him and appreciate everything they’ve done for us.”
For many residents, Wizkid is more than just a global music icon—he is someone they grew up with. Kehinde Adigun, a resident of Somade Crescent, reminisced about their childhood, recalling how they played together in the neighbourhood.
“Wizkid grew up here. It’s been a while since he last visited, but whenever he does, he always plays with the children at our mini football pitch. He gives money to people and shares palliatives with the elderly.”
Adigun also remembered how Wizkid used to attend the annual Shitta Carnival, often performing for the residents. “Last year, he couldn’t make it, and people were disappointed, but I’m sure it was because he was busy at the time,” he said.
Another resident, Hassan Garba, expressed his gratitude to Wizkid for always remembering his roots. “We grew up together, but now he’s a big man. People can’t just approach him like before, but if he sees us, he recognises us. He knows our brother Fago very well—they used to play together back in the day. He’s a good person, and he always remembers us.”
The Balogun family’s generosity has left a lasting impression on the residents of Somade Crescent and Small London. Their acts of kindness—whether distributing money to children, providing food for security guards, or offering support to those in need—have earned them the love and respect of the community.
While Wizkid’s fame continues to grow, the residents of Surulere will always remember the young boy who grew up on their streets, as well as his family, who never hesitated to lend a helping hand.
For these residents, Wizkid’s father, Alhaji Balogun, remains a blessing to the community, embodying the spirit of generosity that has defined the Balogun family for years.
Source: Punch
