The untimely death of rising Afro Fuji star Azeez Adeshina, popularly known as Destiny Boy, has taken a controversial turn on social media. The 22-year-old singer's passing has been shrouded in speculation after clips allegedly showing him participating in traditional rites surfaced online.
Viral Videos Ignite Speculation and Cultural Debate
In the days following the tragic news, several videos began circulating on platforms like Instagram. One particular clip, which has gone viral, appears to show a Yoruba Ifa initiation ceremony. In the footage, individuals in white attire, including masked elders, are seen chanting "Ifa ni mo yan" (meaning "I choose Ifa") while dancing. The late Destiny Boy is identified by netizens as one of the figures in white within the video.
These visuals have fuelled unconfirmed rumours claiming the singer's death was money-related and that he collapsed and vomited blood at a Babalawo's (Ifa priest's) house. It is crucial to note that, as of the time of reporting, there is no verified information regarding the actual cause of his death. His body was reportedly transported to Abeokuta, Ogun State, for burial.
Netizens Clash Over Interpretation of Traditional Practices
The online community has erupted into a heated debate, with the videos acting as a catalyst for discussions on the distinction between cultural spiritual practices and harmful occult rituals.
While some social media users defended Ifa as a legitimate part of Yoruba heritage, others were quick to draw connections to his sudden death. Legit.ng compiled some of the divisive reactions:
- Bidalizback argued: "Not to defend anyone but Bruh these shii are mutually exclusive... Muslims and xtians also die everyday. Do you attach their death to their religion."
- LOlp456 pointed out: "Every year thousands of people pass away in Mecca and u fools never said anything about it. Destiny boy did that initiation over two years ago, and no be wetin kill am be that."
- Oprah_zaza commented critically: "You run Ifa ritual still no buy Lambo or Bugatti before you die... He went too far at a young age."
- itsWildnMarkela urged caution: "Na be first to do juju nah foolish people... what if na poison or then kill d boy."
Muslim Cleric Mourns, Condemns Circulating Footage
Amid the swirling rumours, a Muslim cleric, Alfa Aridunu, publicly mourned the singer during a religious gathering. He also addressed the conduct of social media users, condemning those who recorded and shared footage of the singer's lifeless body online. The cleric frowned upon the spread of unsubstantiated rumours surrounding the circumstances of Destiny Boy's death.
The incident highlights the sensitive intersection of celebrity culture, sudden tragedy, and public perception of traditional African spiritual systems. The debate continues as fans await official details and mourn the loss of a young talent in the Nigerian music industry.
