Social media commentator Solomon Buchi has sparked controversy by criticizing the Yoruba community over the Ojude Oba festival held in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State. The annual cultural event, known for its vibrant display of heritage, fashion, and tradition, took place on Friday, May 29, attracting dignitaries, cultural enthusiasts, and tourists. However, Buchi argued that the celebration was inappropriate given the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Orire, Oyo State.
Buchi's Criticism
In a viral video, Solomon Buchi expressed disappointment over what he described as a lack of sustained public outrage over national tragedies. According to him, Nigerians often show temporary attention to serious issues before quickly moving on. He argued that cultural celebrations should not continue in moments of national distress.
“After a brief wave of social media activism, just calling out issues for a few seconds, a whole festival by Yoruba people went on with partying,” he said. “In a sane country, that festival should not have continued,” he added.
Mixed Reactions Online
Following his comments, social media users have engaged in heated discussions over whether his criticism was valid or unfair. While some agreed with his position on prioritizing national tragedies, others strongly defended the Ojude Oba festival, describing it as a long-standing cultural heritage that should not be politicized.
- User @michel_hanniels stated: “But Seyi Makinde can conduct rally for his presidential ambitions yesterday and he’s even having his party Presidential primaries today abi ? Una never ready.”
- @Agure_Jules wrote: “I enjoy the beauty of that festival but a fellow Yoruba state is going through such a time and a next door neighbor is partying. The president’s son also attended. Would that festival hold if such happens in Ogun? If no, then Where is the empathy. 'It’s their problem' Abi ???”
- @justicedan7 noted: “U are actually amplifying a coordinated smear campaign, attack against ur tribe and people u think it's ok, If u think those don't have agenda against u guys u will b d biggest looser, y do u think people particular tribes are d ones always against u people.”
- @sansbrown_zz stated: “Leave them. Igbo people are one of the biggest promoter of ojude oba. Their hates towards it promotes it.”
Buchi's Previous Controversies
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Solomon Buchi criticized veteran musician Yinka Ayefele for featuring in a song, the Ramadan remix by Tolibian alongside Bhadboi OML. According to Buchi, Yinka Ayefele, whom many regard as a gospel singer, blurred religious lines and undermined Christian identity with his actions. The influencer pointed out that Yoruba cultural harmony, where Christians, Muslims, and traditionalists coexist, was not religious tolerance but religious confusion.
