Meet Daddy Freeze: The Influential Voice Redefining Conversations in Nigeria

Ifedayo Olarinde, known widely as Daddy Freeze, is a name synonymous with Nigerian broadcasting and a notable figure in the country’s media landscape. Born on May 6, 1976, in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, to a Nigerian father and a Romanian mother, Daddy Freeze’s multicultural heritage played a significant role in shaping his dynamic personality. His early years, however, were spent in Ibadan, Nigeria, where he attended the International School Ibadan and later graduated with a degree in sociology from the University of Ibadan.

Daddy Freeze's career in broadcasting began in 1996 when he joined the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS), serving as a correspondent on The World Chart Show. His flair for communication and ability to engage audiences were soon recognized, and in 2001, he joined Cool FM Lagos, where he would rise to become one of Nigeria’s most prominent On-Air Personalities (OAPs). For over two decades, Daddy Freeze was a fixture on Cool FM, hosting a variety of shows and connecting with listeners across the nation. His popularity extended beyond radio, as he frequently hosted music concerts, comedy shows, and Nollywood premieres in Nigeria, Ghana, and the UK.

A versatile figure, Daddy Freeze is also well-known for his outspoken views, which often sparked controversy. In 2017, he founded the Free Nation Online Church and became the leader of the #FreeTheSheeple Movement, a platform through which he regularly challenges societal norms and religious doctrines, particularly targeting the practices of certain Nigerian pastors. His bold critiques and thought-provoking commentary have garnered him a substantial following, as well as critics.

In 2020, after a long and illustrious career at Cool FM, Daddy Freeze announced his departure, marking the end of an era. His exit from the station came after 20 years of dedication, during which he helped shape the identity and success of Cool FM and its sister stations. He later joined Nigeria Info, a sister network, but ultimately bowed out of radio in 2022. In recognition of his contributions to broadcasting, Daddy Freeze became the first inductee into Cool FM's Hall of Fame, a testament to his enduring impact on the Nigerian media industry.

Despite the controversies that have surrounded him, Daddy Freeze remains a respected voice in Nigerian media, celebrated for his commitment to professionalism, and for consistently pushing the boundaries of public discourse. His accolades over the years include the Most Popular Radio Presenter at the 2011 Nigerian Broadcasters Merit Awards, Radio Personality of the Year at the 2012 Mode Men Awards, and Best Radio/TV Personality at the 2013 Nigeria Entertainment Awards, among others.

Today, Daddy Freeze continues to influence conversations on faith, culture, and society, cementing his place as one of Nigeria’s most impactful broadcasters and public commentators. His legacy, built on decades of radio excellence and fearless advocacy, remains a subject of admiration and debate across the nation.