“We Will Use Bible Verses Next Time”: Odunlade Adekola Fires Back at Follower Criticising Constant Charms in Yoruba Movies

Nollywood star Odunlade Adekola has once again proven why he remains one of the most charismatic and unbothered figures in the Yoruba movie industry. The award-winning actor set social media buzzing after responding to a follower who condemned the persistent use of charms and incantations in Yoruba films—a stylistic staple many viewers have come to associate with the genre.

The conversation began when an X user identified as PROFESSOR @Prof_Michael shared his thoughts on the ongoing wave of Yoruba historical and war-themed films. According to him, while it is refreshing to see the industry spotlighting pre-colonial Yoruba history and legendary warlords, the repeated portrayal of charms and incantations is unnecessary and paints war heroes as overly dependent on supernatural powers. In his words, he enjoyed the new trend of telling stories about “our warlords” because it affirms Yoruba history before colonial influence, but he disliked the “constant use of charm & incantation.” He questioned why filmmakers could not present powerful warriors who fought “neutrally without being diabolical,” urging the Yoruba movie industry to review this creative tendency.

The critique immediately sparked reactions, but it was Odunlade’s response that stole the moment. Quoting the post, he simply wrote: “We will use bible verses next time.” A short, witty clap-back that sent the entire platform into laughter, debate, and even deeper reflection on what Yoruba cinema represents.

To many fans, Odunlade’s reply was classic—light-hearted but pointed. Some saw it as an attempt to remind critics that Yoruba movies, particularly in the epic and traditional genre, are inherently rooted in culture, history, and spiritual worldviews that predate Western religion. After all, depicting warlords from centuries ago without cultural accuracy would be historically dishonest. Others, however, interpreted his response as sarcasm masking a deeper frustration: the constant demand to sanitize African culture to make it palatable for modern audiences.

The Yoruba film industry, especially its traditional epic genre, has always leaned heavily on elements like chants, incantations, deities, and traditional warfare. These components are not just mere decorations; they define the worldview of the societies being portrayed. In pre-colonial Yoruba kingdoms, warlords were not only military strategists—they were spiritual figures who sought divine backing before battle. Charms, amulets, chants, and rituals were seen as legitimate forms of protection and empowerment, much like shields and swords. To portray such figures without these elements, some argue, would be equivalent to making a Roman war movie without referencing their gods or an ancient Chinese epic without martial arts philosophy.

This is why many people felt Odunlade’s response was both humorous and necessary. While the critic was within his right to dislike what he considered “diabolical” portrayals, the actor’s comeback highlighted the irony of expecting historically rooted stories to conform to post-colonial religious sensibilities. Using “Bible verses,” as Odunlade joked, would be anachronistic—a complete departure from the era being portrayed.

Still, the actor’s response also reignited a long-standing debate within Nollywood: Should Yoruba films continue to rely heavily on supernatural elements, or should filmmakers evolve toward more grounded narratives? Some critics believe the industry sometimes overdoes the display of charms, making it feel repetitive rather than culturally enriching. They argue that modern viewers want variety, and storytellers should explore other aspects of Yoruba life beyond mystical battles. Others insist that removing charms from Yoruba epics would distort the culture these films are meant to preserve.

Beyond the humour, Odunlade’s reply became a cultural moment because it touched on something deeper—the tension between tradition and modernity. In contemporary Nigerian society, many people view traditional spiritual practices with suspicion, largely because of religious influences. Yet the same people enjoy stories about Vikings invoking Odin, Chinese monks channeling Chi, or Greek heroes consulting oracles without seeing it as problematic. The question then arises: Why are African spiritual portrayals the ones often labelled “diabolical”?

Odunlade’s comment forces this reflection, intentionally or not. It also exposes a subtle truth: African stories are often measured against standards not applied to other cultures’ narratives. When Hollywood or Asian cinemas tap into their ancient spirituality, it is seen as mythology or heroic culture. When Yoruba cinema does the same, some viewers perceive it as dark or fetishistic. This double standard is exactly what many filmmakers say they are trying to challenge by telling more authentic historical stories—flawed, raw, mystical, and fully Yoruba.

Regardless of where one stands in the debate, one thing is certain: Odunlade Adekola’s response achieved what social media moments are made of. It entertained, provoked thought, sparked conversations, and reminded Nigerians why he remains a beloved figure—he knows how to defend his craft without unnecessary arguments or explanations. His comedic timing, even in online conversations, remains unmatched.

The exchange also brought renewed attention to the evolving Yoruba film industry, which has significantly upgraded its production quality in recent years. Directors and actors are increasingly blending rich history with compelling storytelling, bringing to life legendary figures such as Aare Ona Kakanfo warriors, powerful queens, ancient hunters, and village protectors. These films, often shot in elaborate sets and dressed in resplendent traditional costumes, have become a strong cultural export, especially on streaming platforms.

Odunlade, who has starred in numerous epic productions, has often spoken about the importance of cultural preservation. He has emphasised that Yoruba stories, like all indigenous stories, are shaped by the spiritual and philosophical frameworks of their time. To remove those elements would strip the narratives of their identity.

As reactions continue to pour in, many Nigerians are using the moment to call for balance. While some want less emphasis on charms to avoid reinforcing negative stereotypes, others insist the culture should be portrayed as it is, not as people wish it to be. But Odunlade’s cheeky promise to use “Bible verses next time” has become the unofficial punchline of the debate, serving as both a joke and a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural accuracy.

In the end, the actor’s response may have been brief, but the conversation it sparked is far from over. It shines a light on a larger conversation about African storytelling, representation, and the need to reclaim narratives without apology. And if the Yoruba film industry continues at its current pace—bold, unapologetically cultural, and creatively daring—then one thing is clear: the world will keep watching, charms and all.