A viral video of veteran Nigerian singer 9ice has ignited a flurry of online discussions, capturing a moment where the artist paused his performance to pick up money. The incident, which highlights a common yet debated practice at Nigerian shows, has drawn both praise and criticism from netizens.
The Viral Moment at the Lagos Concert
The now-trending clip originates from the Rewind Flashback Concert held in Lagos on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. In the video, Abolore Adegbola Akande, popularly known as 9ice, is seen momentarily halting his musical set. His focus shifts from the microphone to the stage floor, where he gathers US dollar bills that had been sprayed on him by enthusiastic fans during his performance.
This act stood out because, unlike many celebrities who have aides or backup dancers collect money sprayed during events, 9ice chose to pick up the cash himself. The simple, unfiltered action was captured on camera and quickly spread across various social media platforms in Nigeria, putting the "Gongo Aso" crooner at the center of a public conversation.
Mixed Reactions from Nigerians Online
The singer's decision to personally collect the money sparked a wave of mixed reactions. A segment of social media users defended 9ice, applauding his hustle and practical approach. Many pointed to the tough economic realities, arguing that no one should leave legitimate money on the ground.
Comments from supporters on platforms like Instagram reflected this sentiment. One user, ogbonnamiraclekelechi, questioned, "So make en no pick am ? As what nah? he got bills and problems to solve with money too." Another, tommybomb_official, stated emphatically, "If I no pick am, make I know Wetin cause am For this economy, person spray you $100 bills and you no go pick am ke." Several users calculated the naira equivalent, with edutex_poundz noting, "That's N145k per bill. if na you, you no go pick am?"
However, critics found the display somewhat embarrassing for an artist of his stature. They felt it was undignified for a star to bend over for cash during a performance. The debate perfectly encapsulated the clash between traditional showmanship and pragmatic survival in the current climate.
Connection to 9ice's Personal Announcements
This incident follows another personal revelation from the singer that recently made headlines. 9ice announced plans to acquire a tribal mark when he turns 50, as a way to honor his father who bears the same marks. The Ogbomoso-born artist made this declaration, challenging doubts from his associates by saying, "A lot of my boys said I won’t do that, but you will see."
Furthermore, 9ice was also recently spotted among the array of celebrities who attended the surprise 66th birthday party for Fuji music legend, KWAM 1, in March 2023. The event, organized by KWAM 1's wife, Emmanuella, was star-studded, showing 9ice's active presence in the industry's social circuit.
The video from the Lagos concert ultimately serves as a talking point about celebrity culture, fan interaction, and economic pragmatism. Whether seen as a humble hustle or a loss of star quality, 9ice's action has undoubtedly kept him in the public eye, proving that even a simple gesture can trigger widespread conversation in the digital age.
