Nigerian rapper Omoniyi Temidayo Raphael, popularly known as Zlatan Ibile, has shared a surprising story about how his parents initially reacted to his early success and wealth.
Speaking during an interview, the music star revealed that his parents were skeptical about the source of his income after his breakthrough, especially when he bought his first house in Lekki at the age of 25 in 2019 as a gift for them.
According to Zlatan, his parents refused to move into the house because they suspected the money used to acquire it was linked to internet fraud. To convince them otherwise, he had to provide proof of his earnings.
“My parents refused to live in the first house I bought in Lekki because they thought it was fraud money… I had to print my account statement to show them I am being honest,” Zlatan said.
He added that even after being reassured, his parents remained cautious and insisted on spiritual confirmation before accepting the gift.
“They later told me that if they have to come, they will do a seven days prayers to confirm if it’s from God. When they finally agreed to move in, they gave me a condition that I would also live with them,” he stated.
The revelation has since sparked conversations online, with many people relating to the cautious nature of African parents, while others praised his parents for prioritizing integrity despite their son’s fame and success.
“My parents refused to live in the first house I bought for ₦70 million because they thought it was Yahoo money… I had to get a lawyer to explain music money
When we were living together, they told me to be home before 10pm and even made me sign a contract not to get tattoos”… pic.twitter.com/62ssypBsY5— carter🌚 (@carter6f) April 2, 2026