Popular Nigerian musicians, Davido and Zlatan, have come under fire for openly celebrating the notorious Black Axe cult group on their social media pages.
On July 7, Davido posted “Happy Metal” on his X page, while Zlatan shared “7/7 🖤💛”, sparking outrage among fans and the public.
Black Axe, also known as the Neo-Black Movement, is infamous for violent killings, rape, drug dealings and other crimes across Nigerian universities. July 7 is secretly marked as their annual celebration, known as Aiye Day or Founder’s Day.
Every year, the Nigerian Police warns against such celebrations and orders clampdowns on gatherings associated with cultism.
However, Davido’s cryptic post garnered thousands of reactions, with many condemning his endorsement of cult activities.
An X user, @Osagie_jnr, wrote, “Smh, what/who you choose to associate with is no one’s business, but as a celebrity, an influential one at that, posts like these reinvigorate these people. Come to my city and see the damage their activities have caused. Please, do better.”
Another user, @sir_Jordan, said, “Happy Metal Day? So we’re openly celebrating Black Axe now? I hereby declare my official vacation from supporting Davido until further notice. All Davido songs have been temporarily removed from my library.”
Similarly, @Emmasonn commented, “As a public figure, it’s wrong to promote cultism. Davido, do better. You have many young people looking up to you.”
On Zlatan’s page, many fans expressed disappointment. @DareHardy09 wrote, “Just imagine what a celebrity and supposed role model is promoting, smh.”
Another user, OSCL_special, said, “See what you’re promoting? Cultism has taken so many young lives, yet you promote it. I’m disappointed.”
“Cultism is not a flex or an achievement, rest brother,” @OyinTGSPE added. “You send your son to the best schools abroad but spoil other people’s sons here by promoting cultism.”
