Nollywood actor Yul Edochie has stirred up reactions from his followers after posting about ogbanje on October 16, 2024. In his Instagram post, he expressed that many individuals labeled as ogbanje are actually spiritually gifted people who have strayed from their true paths due to ignorance, societal pressures, and fear of judgment. He encouraged those with spiritual gifts to embrace their true selves in order to live fulfilled lives.
Edochie stated:
“Many people we call ‘Ogbanje’ are people who are spiritually gifted. And the essence of having such spiritual gift is to use it to help humanity. But because of ignorance, religion & the fear of what people will say, they keep trying to run away from who they are and by doing so their lives become messed up. Dig deep, find your true self and embrace it and you’ll realize the essence of your existence and live a fulfilled life.”
The post received mixed reactions from his followers, with many expressing confusion regarding his views, especially in light of his recent venture into gospel ministry, which he launched in January 2024. Some fans questioned the connection between his spiritual insights and his role as a gospel minister, while others encouraged him to continue sharing his perspectives on spirituality.
This controversy highlights the ongoing dialogue about spirituality, identity, and societal perceptions within the Nigerian context, particularly in the entertainment industry.