Lifestyle

Once Upon a Time, Hushpuppi

Published

8 months ago

19 August 2025

In the heart of Lagos, where dreams often outpace reality, a young boy named Ramon Olorunwa Abbas watched the world from a different lens.

Born on October 11, 1982, into humble beginnings, with a taxi-driving father and a bread-selling mother, survival was the name of the game. The bustling streets of Lagos taught him that money wasn’t just power. He attended Government College in Ikorodu, Lagos State, for his secondary education. Before achieving international notoriety, he reportedly sold second-hand clothes in Lagos before relocating to Malaysia, spending some time there before moving to Dubai.

Hushpuppi’s family background was modest. His father was a taxi driver, and his mother sold bread in Lagos. According to reports, his mother did not support his lavish lifestyle and warned him several times to stop flaunting his wealth online. He also had an elder sister who, according to him, died in Gbagada Hospital, Ikeja Lagos, while awaiting typhoid and malaria treatment. He blamed the Nigerian government for both her death and that of his stepmother, citing negligence.

Fast forward a few years, and Lagos could barely contain him. Ramon, now known as Hushpuppi, had upgraded from the dusty markets of Balogun to the glitzy skyscrapers of Dubai. He wasn’t just rich—he was filthy rich, or at least that’s what his Instagram feed screamed. Rolls-Royces, Ferraris, Dior head-to-toe, private jets, penthouses overlooking the Arabian Gulf.

Hushpuppi wasn’t just living the dream; he was selling it to millions of eager followers. His social circle included individuals like Ismaila Mustapha, popularly known as Mompha, a Nigerian billionaire and once a close friend. However, their relationship reportedly soured over time. He was also associated with several Nigerian celebrities and flaunted his connections on social media.

But behind the designer shades and Cartier bracelets lay a secret. Money doesn’t just appear, and wealth without a trace always has a backstory. As the world marveled at his extravagant lifestyle, law enforcement agencies were quietly piecing together the puzzle of how this former second-hand clothes seller had become the self-proclaimed “Billionaire Gucci Master.”

Relationships and Personal Life
Hushpuppi had three children from three different women. Two of them lived in London, and the third lived in New York City. His first baby mama, Miss Sho, gave birth to his first son, Dior. However, their relationship turned sour in 2017 when she accused him of being a deadbeat dad, a claim he denied by posting receipts of financial transactions and gifts for his son.

Little is known about his second baby mama, except that she is the mother of Jayden, his daughter and second child.
In 2018, Hushpuppi got married to Shawana Nakesia Chapman, a citizen of St. Kitts and Nevis. This marriage helped him obtain citizenship in the Caribbean nation.

There were also rumors of past relationships with Nollywood actress Tonto Dikeh and German model Amirah Dyme. Dikeh denied involvement, while Dyme distanced herself from Hushpuppi after his arrest, calling him out for flaunting stolen money.

Extravagant Lifestyle and Notoriety
Hushpuppi was widely known for his extravagant lifestyle, which he flaunted boldly on social media. His collection of luxury cars was jaw-dropping, including a 2020 Rolls-Royce Cullinan, a Ferrari 458 Italia, a Bentley Bentayga SUV, and a Rolls-Royce Wraith. He also claimed to own a private jet, a blend of luxury, extravagance, and controversy.

He was also known for his love of luxury travel, visiting exotic destinations, staying in five-star hotels, and dining at the finest restaurants. He reportedly had a St. Kitts and Nevis passport, which allowed him to travel freely.

Before his arrest in 2020, Hushpuppi lived in Dubai, where he resided in a luxury apartment. He favored designer brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Versace, flaunting his latest purchases on social media. His nights were often filled with partying and rubbing shoulders with celebrities and influencers.
Despite his lavish lifestyle, Hushpuppi was also known for his philanthropic efforts. He frequently donated to charitable causes in Nigeria and often surprised his friends and followers with expensive gifts. However, his lifestyle was not without controversy. Many criticized him for flaunting his wealth in a country where poverty was widespread. He was also accused of promoting materialism and influencing youths to engage in fraudulent activities.

Arrest and Conviction

For years, Hushpuppi maintained that he was a real estate developer, using this narrative to justify his flamboyant lifestyle. However, beneath the surface, authorities were closing in on him.
In June 2020, Dubai’s finest stormed his lavish residence in a raid known as Fox Hunt 2, uncovering over $40 million in cash, 13 luxury cars, and evidence of scams worth hundreds of millions of dollars. The same Instagram that made him famous became his downfall, as videos of his arrest spread like wildfire.

He was later transferred to the United States, where he was accused of orchestrating scams involving business email compromise (BEC) fraud, defrauding companies and individuals of millions of dollars. His arrest shocked many who admired his lifestyle, exposing the dark reality behind his wealth.

His friend, Mompha, was also arrested the same year but was later released. Contrary to various claims that Hushpuppi had been freed, he remains incarcerated. In 2022, he was sentenced to 11 years behind bars, trading silk sheets for a prison cot.

The Lesson

Hushpuppi’s story is a modern-day rags-to-riches-to-ruins tale. It’s a reminder that not all that glitters is gold and that sometimes, the most expensive lifestyle comes with the highest price.

His story is also a clear reflection of modern society’s obsession with wealth and materialism and a stark reminder that success built on deception is fleeting. His downfall served as a cautionary tale, true wealth and success come from hard work, integrity, and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world.

Up Next

Nigeria’s First Treehouse Restaurant

Don't Miss

Where to Shop Luxury Brands in Lagos

Click to comment

Lifestyle

5 Restaurants in Abuja to Bookmark This Weekend.

Published

2 days ago

18 April 2026

Bridget Samuel

Ready for a weekend in Abuja?
Whether you’re planning a business lunch in Maitama, a weekend brunch, or a romantic dinner, the capital’s culinary map has never been more exciting. This weekend, we’re stepping away from the usual and diving into five spots that are currently influencing Abuja’s dining scene. These are locations you need to visit and take photographs when you get there.

BluCabana Restaurant & Cafe

Photo – Instagram

As you pull off Shehu Yar’adua Boulevard, the noise is replaced by the sight of swaying palm trees and the cool, blue-lit pool. This place has long been recognised as a staple of the Abuja lifestyle scene, not just for its food but on leisure dining experience. Whether you’re lounging poolside or stepping into their newly revamped indoor space, this spot gives that experience.

BluCubana has an international menu. Mediterranean and Continental cuisine, Lebanese-inspired dishes, are also included in the menu. If you’re visiting this weekend, their Hummus Shawarma or Mixed Grill Platter is a recommended dish. For that local twist on International food, BluCabana Pizza or Suya Fire Steak Sandwich is something you should try. Their service remains top-notch and attentive.

Saffron Cafe

Photo – Instagram

Located at Ajesa Street in a quiet corner of Wuse 2, the spot gives a relaxed cafe setting. Perfect for solo coffee dates and professional meetings. One of their features is the selection of pen-and-paper games on the tables. This is a good spot for breakfast. Their foreman breakfast (yam, plantains, and egg sauce) is a local staple. Saffron Cafe is also family-friendly.

City Creamy at No. 7 Cape Town Street.

Photo – Instagram

They specialise in creamy desserts, velvety textures and creative mix-ins. They have a variety of ice cream flavours from chocolate to fruity, loaded with toppings. City Creamy thick milkshakes and waffles are a popular choice. Their hot and crispy waffles are a dessert you can pair with a cold scoop of ice cream. The spot is located in Wuse Zone 4 and is known for quick service delivery. Their menu is affordable and consistent to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Grill City in Guzape

Photo – Instagram

One defining spot for the irresistible aroma of grilled meat for meat lovers. Situated by the ENL/GRP gate, the place is known for its view of the area and is easily accessible. Their Grilled Fish is their signature dish, well seasoned, moist on the inside and served with their signature spicy sauce. If you’re a fan of poultry, their smoky Grilled Chicken and Wings is a must-try. Whether you’re pairing your protein with spicy chips, fried plantain (dodo), or a side of jollof rice.

Cantina Restaurant

Photo – Instagram

Tucked away on Yedseram Street in Maitama. Cantina feels warmly welcoming. The setting is clean and calm, with lush greenery, and the floor-to-ceiling windows are flooded with natural light during the day. The outdoor seating area is popular for those who enjoy a garden-style seating. Their menu is stacked with Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. From homemade pastas to their Seafood Platter, which are a popular dishes for seafood lovers. The restaurant has a wine cellar, curated to pair with their main dishes, creating a calm dining environment for lunch or long, wine-filled dinners. Their staff are professional, knowledgeable about the menu pairings, and attentive.

Whether you’re looking for a date spot or evening dining, these spots are worth visiting.

Lifestyle

Mr Eazi Leads DJ Cuppy Through a Private Wine Tasting

Published

2 weeks ago

4 April 2026

Laju Odogwu

Photo: Instagram

Mr Eazi and DJ Cuppy shared a fun moment recently when the artist sat down with his sister-in-law for an intimate outing with family that turned into a private wine tasting session for DJ Cuppy. In the video shared online, he took her through a full tasting session taking his time without rushing.

Photo: Instagram

Mr Eazi married Temi Otedola, DJ Cuppy’s younger sister, in August 2025, making him a part of the Otedola family. The two have had a working relationship for years, but this was a different kind of session altogether.

In the video, Mr Eazi introduced the wine as a Barolo, an Italian red wine from the Piedmont region that he describes as “the wine of the kings.” He tells Cuppy exactly what to do. “You need to just swirl it a little bit just so that the body can open up. Then you close your eyes and breathe it in,” he says. He then turns to her and asks, “Can you smell anything? tell me what you smell.” Cuppy leans forward, takes a sniff, and gives him an interesting answer. “I smell soil. I actually smell soil. But why can’t I taste it?” she asked. Mr Eazi explains it simply. “When you let the air pass through it, you start to feel the spiciness,” he tells her.

Photo: Instagram

The tasting was part of Temi Otedola’s 30th birthday trip to Spain. Temi celebrated with family including Mr Eazi, Nana Otedola and her sisters DJ Cuppy and Tolani Otedola. It was a quiet, private celebration with just the people she was closest with.

Between Temi’s 30th birthday and a wine lesson in Spain, the Otedola family clearly had a good time. And if this video is anything to go by, Cuppy might just be a wine person.

Lifestyle

Idia Aisien Opens Up About Heartbreak and Financial Betrayals

Published

1 month ago

9 March 2026

Ene Unazi

Photo credit: Instagram

During the episode, Idia revealed, ‘I used to spend money on guys. If they complained that their business wasn’t doing well, I would give them several million naira,’ she told Toke.

She explained that at the time, she was dating with the intention of marriage, believing early support would be reciprocated. “I believed that if you help a guy in the beginning, later when he’s better, he will help you in return, and if that’s how you treat him, he will eventually treat you,” she said.

Photo credit: Instagram

showing Idia struggling to hold back tears as she reflected on how giving financially in relationships left her feeling taken advantage of. Her candidness resonated with viewers, and prompted conversations about emotional and financial boundaries.

Fans commented on clips from the podcast on YouTube and Instagram. Many shared similar experiences, noting that it’s common to help partners financially early in relationships only to feel let down later. Some viewers expressed support for Idia’s honesty, saying the episode was a conversation we all needed, while others debated whether financial support should ever be given without a clear commitment.

Overall, viewers could relate to Idia’s openness, turning her personal story into a broader discussion on love, trust, and boundaries. By speaking openly with Toke Makinwa, Idia transformed a private hurt into a public discussion, highlighting that relationships can be challenging.