In a recent development, controversial media personality and life coach Solomon Buchi has criticized Nigerians who enthusiastically celebrate Halloween while neglecting their own indigenous festivals.
Buchi pointed out the irony of Nigerians embracing Halloween festivities without similarly participating in cultural events native to Nigeria, such as the New Yam festival. He expressed dismay at the disconnect between Nigerians’ enthusiasm for foreign celebrations and their apparent disregard for their own cultural heritage.
Using the New Yam festival as a specific example, Buchi highlighted the inconsistency of some Nigerians who fail to engage in traditional celebrations but readily embrace foreign customs like Halloween. He urged Nigerians to prioritize their own cultural traditions over imported ones, emphasizing the importance of preserving and celebrating indigenous festivals.
This critique from Buchi comes amid broader discussions about cultural identity and national unity in Nigeria. Just days prior, he had expressed concern about the country’s divided nature, particularly regarding the lack of leadership opportunities for the Igbo ethnic group.
Buchi argued that Nigeria’s unity is undermined by the marginalization of the Igbo people from positions of power and influence. He lamented the hypocrisy of promoting a concept of “One Nigeria” while perpetuating systemic barriers that prevent Igbo individuals from assuming leadership roles.
