Controversial statement follows his earlier revelation of 18 years practising as Babalawo, with Nigerians divided over his rejection of traditional deities

Veteran Nigerian singer, 9ice, has triggered widespread reactions after publicly declaring that his parents are his ‘God’, rejecting the worship of any other deities. The statement was made in Lagos on Sunday through a video posted on his Instagram page, where he asserted that the reverence often reserved for God should instead be directed at one’s parents.

In the video, 9ice said, “Today I’ll tell you something I don’t really talk about, but I’ll talk today. I love my mum, I love my dad, my god is my mum, my father is my god.” He further emphasised in the comment section that he does not believe in what he described as ‘inferior Gods’, distancing himself from both conventional religious practice and other spiritual beings.

The remarks have sparked fresh debate across social media platforms, with many Nigerians questioning the singer’s motives and mental state. Some accused him of seeking attention or being under influence, while others dismissed his views outright. The controversy comes just months after 9ice revealed in April that he has been practising as a Babalawo—a Yoruba traditional priest—for over 18 years, which itself drew significant public scrutiny and criticism.

Religious discourse remains highly sensitive in Nigeria, where Christianity and Islam dominate and traditional beliefs are often stigmatised. In his previous viral outburst earlier this year, 9ice criticised Nigeria’s religious culture for what he perceived as prioritising rituals over productivity. At the time, he questioned why decades of national prayers had not translated into tangible progress for the country and compared Nigerian work ethic unfavourably to that of London.

While some Nigerians agreed with his critique of performative religiosity affecting productivity, few have supported his latest stance equating parents to God. The majority view online remains critical or mocking rather than reflective. As at Monday afternoon, neither major religious bodies nor government officials had issued formal responses to 9ice’s comments. It is yet unclear whether this will prompt broader conversations about spirituality and cultural values in the country.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/9ice-parents-god-spiritual-comments-2026062311393056938