Ruth Semilore
Popular indigenous singer, Abolore Adegbola Akande, widely known as 9ice, has revealed plans to get a tribal mark when he clocks 50, as a way of honouring his father and preserving his family’s heritage.
In a video shared on his TikTok page, the Ogbomosho-born artiste disclosed that his decision was inspired by his father, who bears the same mark.
“By the time I’m 50, I will get the same mark as my dad. That’s what I want to do for my birthday. A lot of my boys said I won’t do that, but you will see,” he said.
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9ice, known for infusing Yoruba language, culture and proverbs into his music, said the decision was part of his effort to reconnect with his traditional roots.
Tribal marks, in Yoruba culture, are seen as symbols of identity, beauty, and cultural affiliation.
The singer, who had in an interview with Nancy Isime in August 2025 disclosed that he is now a traditional worshipper, said he turned to Ifa priesthood after surviving a life-threatening illness.
He expressed regret for not embracing traditional practices earlier in his life, stressing the importance of cultural heritage and the need for younger generations to value their roots.
