Veteran Nigerian singer 9ice has finally addressed years of speculation about his spiritual beliefs, confirming that he has practised a traditional Yoruba faith for more than 18 years while deliberately keeping it hidden from the public. The Gongo Aso hitmaker made the disclosure during a recent public event, where he spoke openly about the decision that shaped much of his public image.
Akande Abolore Adegbola, known professionally as 9ice, explained that fear of social rejection was the main reason he stayed silent for so long. He believed that revealing his faith caused people to distance themselves from him.
“I chose to hide my religion because I believed people would start avoiding me if they found out.”
He added that he had to learn the practices by consulting elders already in the faith and described participating in Odun Ifa, a traditional celebration where devotees give thanks for past blessings and seek guidance for the future. 9ice did not go into detail about how or when he first embraced the path, focusing instead on the long period of secrecy and his reasons for it.
The revelation has stunned many fans who grew up dancing to his music. Some listeners pointed out that certain lyrics in his songs had always carried hints of ancestral wisdom and proverbs that now make more sense in light of his admission.
This is not the first time 9ice has touched on deeper spiritual matters. A few months ago, during an appearance on Nancy Isime’s show, he described the music industry as deeply spiritual and shared how he once battled a prolonged illness that doctors could not diagnose medically.
The timing of the latest comments has sparked lively debate online. While some followers praised him for finally speaking his truth and encouraged him to “practise in peace,” others humorously questioned whether his songs had been invoking forces they were unaware of.
At 18 years and counting, the singer’s private commitment to his faith stands in contrast to the secular image many associated with his career. 9ice appears to be closing a long chapter of concealment and stepping into a more authentic version of himself.