Nigerian Afrobeats star Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, has opened up about the impact of certain damaging rumors that have been circulating about him online.
In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, the Mavin Records artist addressed speculations that link him to the Illuminati, devil worship, and even bizarre claims of drinking blood.
Dismissing these rumors as completely baseless, Rema expressed concern over how such false narratives have affected his career and personal life.
Speaking further, Rema revealed that these unfounded accusations have had a real impact on his fanbase. He explained that despite his dedication to his craft and fans, some people have easily fallen for the fabricated stories.
“Random stories have been made up about me being Illuminati, worshipping the devil, and drinking blood. I definitely lose some fans who just believe anything they see,” he said.
He expressed frustration over how quickly misinformation spreads, especially in the digital age, where people often take online rumors as fact without seeking the truth.
Beyond the controversy, Rema took a more personal approach, sharing the deep sentimental value behind the pendants he wears.
He explained that these accessories are not just fashion statements but symbols of remembrance for his late father and brother. The jewelry serves as a constant reminder of his humble beginnings and the struggles he has endured.
“It was just a dark moment that changed my life, so I always wear this chain—mostly because I never want to forget. While any craziness or any fantastic shit is happening, I always remind myself, ‘Know the struggles you came from,’ because, for real, people be forgetting,” he stated.
Shifting focus to Nigeria’s ongoing challenges, Rema expressed his deep concerns about the growing frustration and hopelessness among Nigerians.
He acknowledged that many citizens have become disillusioned due to economic struggles and social issues, leading them to lose faith in the country’s future. However, despite the negativity, he remains committed to holding onto hope and contributing positively in any way he can.
“A lot of people are giving up in Nigeria. A lot of people are angry at Nigeria. But I keep hope,” he declared.
Rema also spoke about his passion for representing Afrobeats and Nigerian culture on the global stage. He emphasized that he carries the weight of the genre on his shoulders, determined to push its influence even further.
However, he admitted that his passion is sometimes misunderstood, making him appear as if he talks too much or tries too hard to be a savior.
“There’s not a lot of people who would carry Afrobeats like this so much, carry culture. It makes me look like a blabber. It makes me look like I talk too much, or care too much, or I’m trying to be a f**ing messiah,” he explained.
Despite the challenges, Rema remains focused on his mission. He made it clear that he is not trying to prove a point or be seen as a revolutionary—he simply wants to do what he believes is necessary. “I don’t want to do much. I just want to do what I need to do,” he concluded.
With his unwavering dedication to his music and his country, Rema continues to navigate fame while staying true to his roots and his vision for a better future.
