Grammy-winning Afrobeats superstar Burna Boy has ignited a firestorm of reactions across Nigerian social media following a controversial statement made in a viral video. The clip, filmed during a car ride in Lagos, captures the artist declaring in Yoruba that he believes fellow musician Rahman Jago more than the Bible.
A Playful Remark With Heavy Implications
The video, which spread rapidly online, shows Burna Boy, born Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, bursting into laughter after making the bold claim. The context reveals a moment of lighthearted banter between the two friends, highlighting their close bond within the Nigerian music industry.
However, the remark carries significant weight given Burna Boy's recent and highly publicized spiritual transformation. In November 2025, the "Last Last" singer converted from Christianity to Islam, adopting the name Abdulkarim. He had previously explained that his conversion came after a period of exploring various beliefs in search of deeper personal meaning.
This backdrop transforms what might have been a simple joke between comrades into a statement loaded with religious and social commentary, prompting Nigerians to dissect its intent and appropriateness.
Nigerians React: Criticism, Defense, and Religious Comparisons
The online response to Burna Boy's quip has been sharply divided. Legit.ng compiled a range of reactions from netizens, showcasing the spectrum of public opinion.
Many users expressed strong disapproval, viewing the comment as disrespectful to Christian faith. One user, @SymplyKvng, admonished, "Wrong, the word of God shouldn't be joked with... do better." Another, @DeshinaofEkiti, criticized the artist's perceived arrogance following his conversion.
Others pointed out the double standards they perceived in religious discourse. User @AjibolaFaisol01 observed, "Christians don't have problem like Muslims, if a Muslim should say this to Quran. They'll drag him till he regret it." This sentiment was echoed by @Cutenes71918854, who speculated that mentioning the Quran would have elicited a far more severe backlash.
Some, however, appealed for understanding and forgiveness, attributing the remark to the artist's carefree personality, with @TammyLo22059350 humorously pleading, "God I beg just forgive this one because of igbo when he smoke."
Who is Rahman Jago?
The subject of Burna Boy's proclaimed belief, Rahman Jago, is a significant figure in Nigeria's contemporary street pop and dance scene. His real name is Tiamiu Abdulrahman Kayode.
He rose to national prominence in 2018 as the co-creator of the wildly popular Zanku "legwork" dance alongside rapper Zlatan Ibile. His debut street anthem, "Ijo Ope," further cemented his place in the industry. Beyond music, Jago has built influence through affiliations with artists like Naira Marley and the launch of his High Fashion JOL streetwear brand.
The viral moment ultimately underscores the intertwined personal and professional relationships that define the Afrobeats community, even when they spill over into sensitive public debates.
In related news, Burna Boy recently made headlines for dismissing a reported $22 million net worth estimate as "way off" during an interview. He emphasized that his true success lies in his ability to transform his family's life and support others, rather than in online figures.
