LAGOS, Nigeria — Renowned Nigerian music star 9ice has revealed that he has secretly practiced as a Babalawo (Ifa priest) for more than 18 years, opening up about a deeply personal spiritual journey that he says has long shaped both his life and music.
The veteran singer made the disclosure during a recent listening party for his album “Beginning of Wisdom” in Lagos, where he spoke candidly about his evolution from a mainstream Afrobeats artist into a devoted practitioner of the Ifa spiritual tradition.
“I’ve been Babalawo now for more than 18 years, but I hide it because some people will run from me if they know,” he said, highlighting the stigma that often surrounds traditional African religious practices, even within modern Nigerian society.
9ice, born Alexander Abolore Adegbola Akande, rose to prominence in the mid-2000s with his breakout hit “Gongo Aso,” a song that not only dominated airwaves but also earned him recognition for his deep use of Yoruba language, proverbs, and indigenous philosophy. Over the years, fans and cultural commentators have often pointed out the spiritual undertones in his music—something the singer now confirms was no coincidence.
According to him, his journey into spirituality was not sudden but developed over time. He revealed that he was raised within both Christian and Muslim environments at different stages of his life, reflecting the religious diversity common in many Nigerian households. However, he eventually found himself drawn to traditional Yoruba spirituality, which he says offered answers and a sense of identity he had long been searching for.
He explained that becoming a Babalawo involves years of initiation, learning, and discipline under experienced priests, including mastering the sacred texts and verses known as Odu Ifa, as well as understanding complex systems of divination. The practice centers on consulting the oracle to provide guidance, healing, and insight into personal and communal challenges.
Despite his deep involvement, the singer said he chose to keep this aspect of his life private for nearly two decades due to fear of public misunderstanding, professional backlash, and possible alienation from fans. In Nigeria, where Christianity and Islam dominate, practitioners of traditional religions are sometimes viewed with suspicion or prejudice.
Beyond his personal story, 9ice used the moment to advocate for a broader cultural awakening. He argued that Nigeria’s overreliance on foreign systems, particularly in religion and governance, has contributed to ongoing societal challenges. According to him, reconnecting with indigenous knowledge systems like Ifa could help foster a stronger sense of identity and offer alternative solutions to national issues.
He also spoke about Odun Ifa, an important annual festival in the Ifa calendar, where devotees gather to give thanks, make sacrifices, and seek prophetic guidance for the coming year. The event, he explained, plays a crucial role in maintaining spiritual balance and communal unity among practitioners.
Observers note that this revelation aligns with a growing movement among some African artists and intellectuals who are reclaiming traditional beliefs and cultural heritage. In recent years, there has been renewed interest in indigenous spirituality, particularly among younger generations seeking to reconnect with pre-colonial African identity.
Public reaction to 9ice’s disclosure has been mixed. While many fans have expressed admiration for his honesty and courage, others have reacted with surprise, given the long-standing stereotypes associated with traditional religion. Some supporters, however, argue that his openness could help normalize and destigmatize African spiritual practices.
Music analysts also suggest that this new chapter could influence the direction of his artistry. Known for his rich lyrical content and philosophical themes, 9ice may now lean even more deeply into spiritual and cultural narratives, potentially redefining his legacy within the Nigerian music industry.
The singer concluded by emphasizing that his journey is ultimately about self-discovery and authenticity. “I’m not who I used to be. Life is about growth, and I believe I’ve found my true self,” he said. His revelation marks a significant cultural moment, not just for his career but for ongoing conversations about identity, spirituality, and the place of traditional religion in contemporary African society.
