Nigerian singer 9ice, born Abolore Adegbola Akande, stunned fans at his Beginning of Wisdom album event in Yaba on April 8 by disclosing that he has secretly served as a Yoruba Babalawo for over 18 years. The 45-year-old artist admitted he kept the practice hidden, fearing societal rejection.
The revelation has ignited widespread reactions online, with fans expressing admiration, humour, and support for his embrace of Yoruba heritage. Known for hits like Gongo Aso, 9ice has consistently woven African spirituality and ancestral themes into his music, a factor reflected in his latest album.
Social media users praised his courage and highlighted the importance of respecting traditional practices. @obalola214 commented that 9ice is challenging stereotypes about traditionalists, noting that Yoruba spirituality predates Christianity by over 2,000 years. @adeosunm emphasized that his music already reflects his spiritual depth, while others, including @Redwineplus and @Bolaji_Turner_, reflected on the balance between his faith and cultural practices.
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Fans also discussed the broader societal implications of his confession. @mr_chiboy noted that hiding a spiritual calling for nearly two decades says more about societal pressures than the individual, while @AyeloFayowole lamented the lost opportunity for younger generations to learn from his expertise.
The revelation underscores ongoing conversations about spirituality, cultural heritage, and acceptance within Nigeria’s entertainment industry, reinforcing 9ice’s position as a bridge between modern music and traditional African beliefs.
