Entertainment

Burna Boy, Cubana Chief Priest feud rocks social media

Published

1 year ago

January 5, 2025

Cubana Chief Priest, Burna Boy

Burna Boy, Cubana Chief Priest feud rocks social media

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has issued a stern warning to Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy over alleged uncharitable and divisive remarks perceived to target the Igbo race during his ongoing social media spat with celebrity businessman Cubana Chief Priest.

A statement signed by HURIWA National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, on Sunday cautioned Burna Boy to steer clear of tribal undertones in his disputes and avoid comments that could foster disunity or perpetuate ethnic stereotypes.

“The feud between Burna Boy and Cubana Chief Priest reportedly erupted when the singer referred to the businessman as “Owerri Rick Ross” in a social media post, which many interpreted as a jab.

” Cubana Chief Priest responded by accusing Burna Boy of owing money for jewelry purchases, escalating the altercation into a public spectacle. However, what has drawn significant attention and condemnation is Burna Boy’s apparent attempt to drag the Igbo identity into the fray,” HURIWA said, describing the move HURIWA as unwarranted and offensive.

The rights group emphasized that while public figures are entitled to disagreements, introducing ethnic sentiments into personal disputes is a dangerous precedent that could undermine national unity.

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The association decried Burna Boy’s mention of “Igbo voice” and his insinuations regarding the Igbo community as a reckless and unjustifiable attack on an entire ethnic group.

“HURIWA is deeply disappointed by Burna Boy’s comments during his altercation with Cubana Chief Priest. While he has every right to defend himself against allegations, resorting to veiled ethnic attacks is a troubling manifestation of Igbo phobia, which must not be tolerated. The Igbo people are a great race with a rich history of resilience, enterprise, and unity. Dragging their identity into a personal spat is not only disrespectful but also dangerously divisive,” the statement read.

HURIWA urged Burna Boy to focus on addressing the specific issues raised by Cubana Chief Priest without resorting to language or sentiments that could alienate or offend any ethnic group.

The group reminded the singer of his influential status and the responsibility that comes with being a global cultural ambassador for Nigeria.

“As an internationally celebrated artist, Burna Boy represents not just himself but the entirety of Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage. His words carry weight and have the potential to influence millions of fans across the globe. It is therefore imperative that he conducts himself in a manner that promotes unity and respect for all ethnic groups,” HURIWA stated.

The association expressed concern over the growing trend of public figures using tribal references to score points in personal disputes, warning that such actions could exacerbate tensions and foster distrust among Nigeria’s ethnic groups. HURIWA called on all Nigerians, especially those in the public eye, to refrain from actions or comments that could sow discord.

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“Burna Boy’s remarks are a stark reminder of the need for caution in public discourse. Nigeria is a nation of diverse cultures and ethnicities, and it is incumbent upon every citizen, particularly public figures, to uphold the principles of mutual respect and unity. We urge Burna Boy to retract his statements and issue an apology to the Igbo community for his uncharitable remarks,” HURIWA said.

While addressing Burna Boy, HURIWA also advised Cubana Chief Priest to ensure that his responses remain focused on the matter at hand and devoid of any rhetoric that could escalate the situation further. The association urged both parties to prioritize constructive dialogue over inflammatory exchanges.

“Cubana Chief Priest, like Burna Boy, holds a position of influence and should be mindful of his words and actions. The ongoing feud should serve as a moment for reflection rather than escalation. Both parties have a responsibility to their followers to model behavior that fosters understanding and respect,” the group stated.

HURIWA called on Nigerian artists and influencers to use their platforms to promote unity and national cohesion. The group stressed the importance of leveraging their reach and influence to address critical issues affecting the nation, rather than engaging in actions that could deepen divisions.

“As Nigeria grapples with numerous challenges, from economic hardship to insecurity, it is essential for public figures to unite in championing causes that uplift the nation. Feuds laced with ethnic undertones only serve to distract from these pressing issues and erode the trust and unity needed to address them,” HURIWA concluded.

The association reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, justice, and human rights in Nigeria and pledged to continue holding public figures accountable for actions and statements that undermine national unity.

Burna Boy, Cubana Chief Priest feud rocks social media

Related Topics:Burna Boy Cubana Chief Priest

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Iyabo Ojo Quits Mediation Between Funke Akindele, Toyin Abraham

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Iyabo Ojo Quits Mediation Between Funke Akindele, Toyin Abraham

Nollywood actress and filmmaker Iyabo Ojo has announced that she will no longer act as a mediator in the ongoing dispute between fellow stars Funke Akindele and Toyin Abraham, citing her inability to resolve the tensions despite her best efforts. She made the disclosure in a detailed post on her Instagram page on Tuesday, addressing criticisms of her involvement and clarifying her past efforts to reconcile the actresses.

Ojo explained that her friendship with Akindele spans several years and has had ups and downs. She admitted to previously publicly criticising Akindele over a movie issue, which she later regretted, but the two reconciled. She then took deliberate steps to broker peace between Akindele and Abraham, at times pleading with both to embrace harmony, which they reportedly did for a period.

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The actress noted that the reconciliation came with an agreement that any future disputes should be resolved privately and off social media. However, she said the arrangement fell apart last December after Abraham raised complaints about alleged sabotage affecting her movie, which sparked renewed tensions and fan speculation against Akindele.

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The situation escalated following the premiere of Ojo’s new film The Return of Arinzo at the Balmoral Event Centre in Lagos, where a viral video showed Abraham greeting colleagues while Akindele appeared to ignore her. The incident sparked widespread debate on social media, with fans questioning whether past differences had resurfaced. Ojo also clarified that Abraham had originally been cast in her film but withdrew due to exhaustion and travel commitments, causing last-minute script changes.

Despite her repeated attempts, Ojo said she can no longer intervene in the feud. “Honestly, all this saddened me because the sky is big enough for all. I have tried my best, but at this point, I can’t beg anyone anymore. I honestly don’t want to get involved anymore,” she wrote. She urged fans to respect her decision, emphasising that when both parties are ready, they will reconcile on their own terms.

Ojo also promoted her film, confirming that The Return of Arinzo is set to premiere nationwide in cinemas from April 3. The renewed public attention on Akindele and Abraham’s relationship highlights the growing interest in Nollywood celebrity dynamics and the challenges of managing personal conflicts in the public eye.

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Céline Dion Announces Stage Comeback After Four-Year Health Battle

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Global music icon Céline Dion has officially announced her return to singing and live performances, four years after stepping away from the stage due to a rare neurological condition.

In a heartfelt video shared on her Instagram page on Monday to mark her 58th birthday, the Grammy-winning singer told fans she is recovering steadily and ready to reconnect with audiences.

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Dion’s return follows her diagnosis with Stiff-Person Syndrome, a rare and chronic neurological disorder she publicly disclosed in December 2022. The condition causes severe muscle stiffness, spasms, and mobility challenges, significantly affecting her ability to perform.

At the time, she was forced to cancel her “Courage World Tour”, including multiple shows across Europe, after revealing that the illness had impacted her ability to walk and sing.

In a 2024 interview with NBC News, Dion described the condition as extremely painful, likening it to “someone’s strangling you,” highlighting how it affected her vocal cords and breathing.

Her health journey was further documented in the 2024 film I Am: Céline Dion, where she openly shared emotional moments and the physical toll of the illness. In the trailer, she emphasized her determination to return to performing, saying, “If I can’t run, I’ll walk. If I can’t walk, I’ll crawl. I won’t stop.”

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Funke Akindele, Toyin Abraham Spark Reactions Over Alleged Snub at Iyabo Ojo’s Premiere

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Funke Akindele, Toyin Abraham Spark Reactions Over Alleged Snub at Iyabo Ojo’s Premiere

Nollywood heavyweights Funke Akindele and Toyin Abraham have ignited widespread conversation online following an alleged snub at a star-studded movie premiere hosted by Iyabo Ojo in Lagos.

The viral video from the event shows Abraham approaching a table where Akindele sat with Ojo and other guests. While some attendees acknowledged her greeting, Akindele appeared not to respond, maintaining a calm and composed expression throughout the brief interaction.

The clip quickly gained traction across social media platforms, with many viewers interpreting the moment as a snub, while others argued it may have been a misunderstanding in a crowded and busy environment.

Reactions have remained sharply divided. Some critics described the perceived action as unnecessary at a public event, while supporters insisted that such moments can easily be misread, especially during high-profile gatherings.

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The situation has also revived long-standing discussions about a possible Nollywood rivalry between the two actresses. Over the years, fans have frequently compared their box-office performances, particularly during cinema release periods, despite both stars maintaining professionalism in public.

Adding to the intrigue, social media users resurfaced past exchanges between the actresses, suggesting that the incident may reflect deeper tensions. However, others have cautioned against drawing conclusions from a short clip.

Following the controversy, reports indicate that Abraham unfollowed Akindele on Instagram and shared a now-deleted post hinting she may stop greeting her colleague publicly. This development has further fueled online debates and speculation.

Despite the growing buzz, neither Akindele nor Abraham has issued an official statement addressing the incident.

As discussions continue, several fans and commentators have called for restraint, urging the public not to escalate tensions or turn the situation into online hostility.

Ultimately, the episode highlights how quickly celebrity moments can trend online, shaping narratives and fueling conversations within Nigeria’s entertainment industry.