Olamide: Our culture, tradition shouldn’t be branded diabolical

Alexandra Aiyudu

Olamide: Our culture, tradition shouldn’t be branded diabolical

November 4, 2026

Olamide, the Nigerian rapper, has defended Yoruba traditions against claims that they are “diabolical”, insisting that Nigerians should embrace their heritage. He also said he would gladly use black soap, a traditional Yoruba skincare product.

The music executive spoke on Tuesday at a private screening of actress Sotayo Gaga’s new film, ‘Ose Dudu’, at The Pod by Nile Luxury Cinemas.

Dressed in a vibrant adire outfit, Olamide used the event to promote Yoruba culture. He urged people to stop attaching negative labels to its traditions.

“This is really just promoting the culture and trying to sensitise people that our culture and our tradition is not diabolical,” he said.

“Our culture and our tradition is not to be demonised. And we are proud of who we are, where we are coming from, and everything about our heritage, our tradition, and our culture.”

Olamide speaks on black soap

The rapper also referenced the film’s central subject, black soap, to stress his acceptance of traditional Yoruba practices.

“I’m a Yoruba boy,” he said. “If you give me black soap, I’ll gladly collect it and use it.”

Known among the Yoruba as ose dudu, black soap is a traditional skincare product made with ingredients such as plantain skins, cocoa pods and palm kernel oil.

While many people use it for skincare, some also associate the product with spiritual practices. Sotayo’s film explores this subject.

‘Ose Dudu (The Black Soap)’ is a 76-minute Yoruba drama produced by the actress for her YouTube channel, Sotayo Gaga TV. Her real name is Tayo Sobola.