African China Opens Up on Using Voodoo to Survive Death Threats
Nigerian singer Chinagorom Onuoha, popularly known as African China, has revealed that he relied on a combination of martial arts and traditional voodoo practices to protect himself from life-threatening dangers during the peak of his music career. In a recent episode of the Beer Parlor Talk podcast, the conscious music pioneer shared that his socially charged lyrics made him a target for various groups, forcing him to live in constant fear and on the run.
Constant Pursuit by Law Enforcement and Vigilantes
African China disclosed that he spent a significant portion of his career evading rogue policemen, vigilante groups like the Oodua Peoples' Congress (OPC), and street gangs. He explained that his music, which often tackled societal issues such as governance and social justice, attracted hostility from these entities. The singer admitted that informants frequently tipped him off about impending threats, allowing him to escape capture and harassment.
"I was running from police, OPC, and Area Boys. Informants also helped me in escaping from the constant threats," he recalled during the podcast interview. This relentless pursuit created an environment where African China had to stay alert at all times, even during live performances.
Martial Arts and Voodoo as Survival Tools
To ensure his safety, African China combined his black belt martial arts skills with traditional voodoo protection. He emphasized that survival in the music industry during his era required not only physical combat abilities but also spiritual safeguards. "I am a black belter. During my time, you need to know how to fight to survive in the music industry. I was not just learning martial art but also engaged in voodoo to protect myself. My life was in danger because I was making conscious music," he stated.
His ability to evade capture during performances led many of his enemies to believe he possessed mystical powers, such as teleportation. African China noted that audience members would quietly signal him when suspected threats arrived, helping him avoid confrontations. "OPC always tried to harass me even when I was performing, but the audience always give me signals whenever they are coming. So, OPC thought I was using voodoo to disappear. I was always at alert," he explained.
Rise to Prominence and Social Media Reactions
African China rose to fame in the early 2000s with songs that focused on social justice and everyday struggles faced by Nigerians. His revelations have sparked reactions on social media, with users expressing nostalgia and surprise. For instance, one user commented on his childhood memories, while others discussed related topics, such as another celebrity's admission of using traditional charms.
This account paints a vivid picture of a musician navigating fame while constantly watching his back, highlighting the risks associated with producing music that challenges societal norms. African China's story underscores the extreme measures artists may take to protect themselves in volatile environments.
