Nigerian music icon Alexander Adegbola Akande, popularly known as 9ice, has stirred controversy with a startling revelation that the devil is in control of the music industry.
The 45-year-old singer made the claim during a recent episode of The Nancy Isime Show, where he appeared as a guest. According to 9ice, the devil plays the role of a “choirmaster” in the industry, influencing artists into unhealthy lifestyles, including smoking and other vices.
“The devil controls music. Devil is the choirmaster. That’s why we smoke and do all the things we do,” he said. “Music generally is controlled by the devil. If you’re coming to this industry, understand where you’re coming to. I’m not lying to you. He [the devil] is the most powerful angel. I’m speaking based on knowledge and what I’ve experienced spiritually.”
9ice, known for hits such as Gongo Aso and Street Credibility, did not hold back as he shared deeply personal spiritual experiences, warning aspiring musicians to be spiritually prepared before venturing into the entertainment world.
When asked by host Nancy Isime if he had encountered spiritual battles in his music career, 9ice responded, “Several times.” He went on to recount a terrifying ordeal in 2009/2010 when he allegedly vomited blood for six months, an experience he said had no medical explanation.
“I had to leave my house. It wasn’t a medical condition,” he said.
The singer also used the interview to open up about his spiritual identity. Rejecting mainstream religions, 9ice declared that he is a Babalawo—a traditionalist and practitioner of Ifa spirituality.
“I’m not a Christian or a Muslim. I’m a Babalawo. I’m an African. I’m a traditionalist,” he said. “The first time I experienced Ifa was when I was vomiting blood. Someone referred me to Ifa. I just wished that I had known Ifa at the beginning.”
He added that he now understands the spiritual path taken by Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti, who was often mocked for his devotion to the Yoruba deity Ogun.
9ice’s comments have since sparked a wave of reactions online, with fans, critics, and fellow artists weighing in on the controversial statements.
