Nigerian music star, Olamide, has defended Yoruba culture and African traditions, insisting that the continent’s cultural heritage should not be portrayed as evil or treated as something people should be ashamed of.
The rapper made the remarks while speaking at a movie premiere, where he called for greater understanding and appreciation of African cultural values and traditional practices.
Olamide said African traditions should be understood and respected rather than condemned based on misconceptions, stressing that cultural practices should not automatically be associated with diabolism.
He urged Nigerians, particularly those of Yoruba descent, to remain proud of their roots, identity and heritage.
“This is really just promoting the culture and trying to sensitise people that our culture and our tradition is not diabolical.
“Our culture and our tradition is not to be demonised. And we are proud of who we are, where we are coming from and everything about our heritage, our tradition and our culture. I’m a Yoruba boy; if you give me black soap, I’ll gladly collect it,” he said.
The singer’s comments come amid recurring public debates over the interpretation and portrayal of African traditional practices, with some cultural expressions often viewed through religious and social misconceptions.
In a related development, Olamide recently opened up about the anxiety he experiences before stage performances, linking it to traumatic incidents during previous shows.
In an interview with YouTuber Korty EO, the rapper recounted instances in which audience members allegedly attacked him on stage, including incidents involving attempts to snatch his chain and hat.
He described the experiences as frightening, explaining that they had affected his confidence and made him nervous about future performances.
