LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- Nigerian music veteran Chinagorom Onuoha, widely known as African China, has shared how his protest songs against bad governance put him in danger, forcing him to adopt extreme survival tactics including martial arts training and spiritual protection to escape security agents.
Speaking during a recent appearance on the Beer Parlor Talk podcast, the “Mr President” crooner revealed that his bold lyrics made him a target of powerful groups, including the police, the Oduduwa Peoples Congress (OPC), and street gangs commonly known as Area Boys.
He added that at the peak of his career, he faced risks both onstage and offstage due to his socially conscious music.
According to the singer, the threats became so intense that he had to take drastic steps to stay safe.
He said he trained in martial arts and also turned to spiritual means for protection.
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“I am a black belter. During my time, you need to know how to fight to survive in the music industry. I was not just learning martial art but also engaged in voodoo to protect myself…,” he said.
Furthermore, African China explained that he managed to avoid several planned attacks by staying constantly alert and relying on trusted informants.
These insiders would warn him about potential danger zones, especially during live performances.
He also credited his loyal fans for playing a key role in keeping him safe.
He revealed that audience members often signaled when trouble was approaching, helping him escape before security agents could reach him.
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“My life was in danger because I was making conscious music. I was running from police, OPC and Area Boys. Informants also helped me in escaping from the constant threats. OPC alway tried to harras me even when I was performing but the audience always give me signals whenever they are coming. So, OPC thought I was using voodoo to disappear. I was always at alert,” he recalled.
African China built his reputation on bold, politically charged songs that challenged government actions and exposed corruption in the early 2000s.
Tracks like Burn Dem Political Thieves, Letter To Mr President, and Africa struck a chord with listeners both in Nigeria and abroad, becoming anthems for people expressing frustration with leadership.
His recent revelation adds to that legacy, showing that despite real fears for his safety, he remained committed to speaking out and using his music to confront pressing national issues.
