Nigerian singer Alexander Adegbola Akande, popularly known as 9ice, has sparked debate by asserting that foreign religions, including Christianity and Islam, have not contributed to the progress of Nigeria.
Speaking at a recent event covered by Gold Myne TV, the Gongo Aso crooner criticised Nigerians who devote themselves to religious practices, arguing that prayers alone have not addressed the country’s security and economic challenges.
“You will leave Nigeria and go to Mecca to lick rock all in the name of Kabba. Ever since you have been calling on Allah and Jesus, this country hasn’t gotten any better. If you go to London, nobody goes to church there yet they are better than Nigeria,” 9ice said. “They go to work on Sundays, but Nigerians go to church. Many spend most of their time in weekly services praying over everything, including matters they should handle themselves.”
The singer, who now identifies as a traditionalist, disclosed in an August 2025 interview with Nancy Isime that he turned to traditional religion after an Ifa priest healed him from a “spiritual attack” that caused him to vomit blood for six months. He added that he regrets not embracing traditionalism earlier.
