Veteran Fuji musician Saheed Okunola, better known as Saheed Osupa, has ignited a fresh wave of debate in the Nigerian entertainment scene after publicly declaring that he relies on juju to advance his career and personal life. The singer made the startling revelation during a live performance, at the 52nd birthday celebration of veteran Yoruba actor Fatai Odua, popularly called Lalude.
In a video from the event that has since gone viral, Osupa was seen addressing his backup singers who struggled to keep up with his fast-paced delivery. He urged them to consider voodoo practices for better focus and well-being, insisting it was not about becoming fetish but simply a tool for progress. He then turned the conversation to his own life, revealing that he had rejected advice to deny using supernatural powers in interviews.
“Somebody told me one time to grant an interview, denying that I’m a fetish person, but I told him that I am, and why should I deny it. I didn’t kill anyone with my juju or commit evil with it. I am only looking for how to progress. Nothing more.”
The Fuji icon went on to describe his daily routine of paying homage to Ifa.
“That’s why anytime I wake, I always pay obeisance to my Ifa. I don’t know the deity beyond it, because it is worth paying homage to.”
He dismissed the idea that hard work or ordinary remedies alone could bring success, stressing the need for spiritual practice in the path of attaining success.
“If I don’t engage in voodoo, what else should I have employed. Is it Phensic or Panadol that will make me successful? It is not good to be poor and still not live a good life. Even if one is not enormously rich but should enjoy comfort.”
Osupa further claimed that juju is far more widespread than people admit.
“Everybody practises voodoo. While some hide behind the scenes to do theirs, I do mine in the open. All those talks of mine that I rely solely on the Bible and the Quran are pure lies.”
The comments have drawn strong reactions, particularly from Islamic clerics who have long admired the musician and claimed him as their own. Several voices on TikTok criticised him for promoting traditional practices, urging him to return to God and warning that his music with instruments already conflicts with certain religious expectations. One cleric described the statement as disappointing for Muslim fans who look up to him, while another suggested the admission showed a lack of true religious commitment.
In response, Osupa clarified on Tuesday that he has never spoken against the holy books and fully recognises both Jesus and Prophet Muhammad as messengers of God. He criticised what he called “eye service” among those condemning him while possibly engaging in similar practices privately.
As one of the leading figures in Fuji music for decades, he has built a massive fan base known for its loyalty across religious groups. Many supporters have defended his honesty, arguing that artists should feel free to discuss their personal beliefs without fear of backlash. Others, however, believe the open admission could alienate parts of his audience and affect his standing in the industry.