Two of Nigeria’s celebrated music figures, Abolore Akande, popularly known as 9ice, and Fuji maestro, Saheed Osupa, are currently facing intense criticism across social media platforms, following their public alignment with traditional belief systems over mainstream religions.
The controversy erupted after both artistes made statements that many users interpreted as a dismissal of Christianity and Islam, sparking heated debates online about faith, culture, and influence.
9ice made his remarks during the listening party of his new album, Beginning of Wisdom, in Lagos, where he openly identified with traditional spirituality. “I have been a babalawo for more than 18 years, but I hid it,” he disclosed, drawing immediate reactions from guests and, later, online audiences.
He went further to question the impact of mainstream religions on Nigeria’s progress, saying, “You’ll leave Nigeria and go to Mecca to go and lick rock all in the name of Kaaba. Ever since you’ve been calling on Allah and Jesus, this country hasn’t gotten any better. If you go to London, nobody goes to church there.” The remarks, widely circulated on social media, triggered sharp criticism, with many describing them as provocative and dismissive of deeply held beliefs.
9ice maintained that Africans need to reconnect with their roots. “We cannot continue to abandon who we are. Our traditions, our roots, they are not inferior to any religion brought from outside,” he said, reinforcing his stance and deepening the ongoing debate.
Similarly, Osupa ignited outrage during a live performance at a birthday celebration when he openly declared his stance. “If I tell you I don’t use juju, I will be lying. Everybody does it one way or the other. The difference is that some people are bold enough to say it, while others hide behind religion,” the Fuji star said during his performance.
Doubling down, Osupa defended his position with a cultural argument. “This is our way, our tradition. Before any religion came, this is what we had. So why should we now act like it is something to be ashamed of?” he added, drawing loud reactions both at the event and across social media.
The backlash spilled onto social media, where many users did not hold back in expressing their displeasure. Some critics accused 9ice and Osupa of using their influence irresponsibly.
“When celebrities start normalising things like this, you begin to wonder what message they are passing to young people. Faith is not something to water down for trends,” one user wrote.
Others questioned what they described as hypocrisy in the artists’ positions. “The same people who will thank God publicly are now saying everyone is doing juju secretly. Please speak for yourself,” another comment read, while a different user added, “Today it’s one statement, tomorrow it’s another. Be consistent with what you stand for.”
However, a section of users pushed back against the outrage, defending the musicians’ right to their beliefs. “At least they are saying the truth many are afraid to say. African spirituality is not a crime,” a supporter wrote. Another added, “People are angry because they are used to pretending. What 9ice and Osupa said is uncomfortable, but it’s a conversation we need to have.”
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