‘I use Juju to succeed’ — Fuji star Saheed Osupa sparks controversy

Popular Fuji musician Saheed Osupa has stirred controversy after openly admitting to using traditional spiritual practices, commonly referred to as “juju,” as part of his success journey.

Mr Osupa, whose real name is Saheed Okunola, made the remarks while performing at the 52nd birthday celebration of veteran actor Fatai Odua, popularly known as Lalude, on 30 March, 2026.

In a video that has since gone viral, the Fuji star was seen advising his backup singers to adopt spiritual means to improve their performance, suggesting it could aid memory and delivery on stage.

Mr Osupa explained that such practices, in his view, are not necessarily fetish but are meant to support personal well-being and progress.

“Somebody once told me to deny being fetish in an interview, but I refused,” Mr Osupa said. “I didn’t kill anyone with my juju. I am only looking for how to progress.”

He added that he regularly pays homage to Ifa, a traditional Yoruba spiritual system, insisting that it plays a role in his life.

“If I don’t engage in voodoo, what else should I use? Is it Panadol that will make me successful?” Mr Osupa said humorously, adding that everyone engages in such practices, whether openly or privately.

Public reactions

The remarks have triggered widespread reactions, particularly among religious groups, with several clerics criticising the singer’s stance.

An Islamic cleric identified as Alagusiy urged Mr Osupa to abandon such practices, arguing that his success is divinely ordained rather than tied to traditional rituals.

“You don’t need to promote Ifa… God is the one who made you famous and rich,” the cleric said.

Another commentator, Uwais Lukman, questioned the perception of Mr Osupa’s religiosity, stating that his continued involvement in music already places him outside strict religious expectations.

Similarly, a commentator known as General Tom criticised the singer, alleging that his statements reflect excessive reliance on spiritual practices.

Response to critics

Responding to the backlash, Mr Osupa maintained that he respects both Christianity and Islam, noting that he believes in Jesus Christ and Prophet Muhammad.

However, he criticised what he described as “eye service” among religious adherents, suggesting that many people are not sincere in their beliefs.

Mr Osupa did not retract his earlier comments about using juju, nor did he directly address specific critics.

Discussions around the intersection of traditional beliefs, religion, and success are common in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, where some artists openly acknowledge spiritual influences while others distance themselves from such claims.

The Fuji genre, rooted in Yoruba culture, often reflects elements of tradition and spirituality, which sometimes intersect with modern religious practices.

Mr Osupa has previously referenced encounters with spiritual figures during performances, though his latest remarks mark one of his most direct acknowledgements of such practices.