Yul Edochie Faces Backlash After Urging Nigerians to Embrace Traditional Spirituality
Nollywood actor Yul Edochie has stirred up controversy online once again with a statement urging Nigerians to return to their traditional spiritual roots, claiming it could help prevent untimely deaths. The actor made the remarks in a post shared on his Instagram page, where he asserted that traditional beliefs offer spiritual guidance that can safeguard lives.
Edochie wrote, “Untimely death has become rampant in our society. It’s happening because majority of us have abandoned our traditional ways and embraced the ways of the white man. Go home and embrace our traditional ways. As a traditionalist, you’ll be fully enlightened on the do’s and don’ts of spirituality. If you keep to it judiciously, untimely death will never be your portion.”
His comments, however, triggered a flood of reactions from Nigerians on social media, many of whom disagreed with his perspective. While some supported the call for cultural preservation, the majority criticized Edochie’s views, saying that spirituality alone does not determine life or death.
Why did Yul Edochie receive criticism for his post?
Edochie’s suggestion that traditionalism could prevent early death was seen by many as overly simplistic and lacking scientific or rational backing. Critics pointed out that various other factors such as health, hygiene, and socioeconomic status also contribute to untimely death, and not merely one’s spiritual beliefs.
Some users accused him of using spirituality to mask personal or societal failings, while others questioned his qualifications to speak on matters of life and death. One particularly scathing comment read, “Yul Edochie, stop capping rubbish and get yourself educated! You sat on your Bachelor’s degree for over 20 years with no upgrade in your education, hence you have a shallow mindset.”
Others invoked their Christian faith in response, saying they believe in Jesus Christ and reject any call to traditional practices that contradict their religious convictions. Another added, “You can as well decide your own fate when you stick to what you believe. I believe in God and I have eternal life.”
Despite the criticism, Yul has not responded further to the backlash, and the post continues to generate heated debate online. Known for his controversial takes, Edochie has become a polarizing figure in Nigerian entertainment and public discourse, often making statements that ignite intense public scrutiny.
