Nigerian afrobeats superstar, Divine Ikubor well known as Rema, has had his Ethiopian Concert cancelled after an Orthodox church claimed his 'Burning Church' necklace is associated with devil worship.
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The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church has reportedly pressured the management of Sheraton Hotel in Addis Ababa to cancel the concert which was scheduled to take place on September 9 2023.
The decision came amid controversy surrounding allegations of “devil-worshipping” associated with the artwork on his customized necklace.
The symbols used by Rema, particularly a burning church featured on his necklace and used as a backdrop for his performances, were viewed as disrespectful and offensive by many Ethiopians.
The imagery, which included burning churches and inverted crosses, sparked significant public outcry and condemnation.
In response to mounting public pressure, the Sheraton Hotel, Addis Ababa, decided to cancel Ikubor’s event.
The hotel management issued a statement, expressing deep regret for any offence caused by the singer’s planned performance and emphasising their respect for Ethiopian culture, history, and religious values.
