September 7, (THEWILL) – The management of Sheraton Hotel in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, has cancelled Divine Ikubor, aka Rema’s concert, over religious sentiment and suggestive imagery.
The singer was to use Sheraton Hotel as venue of his concert, but the management later issued a statement announcing the cancellation of the concert, which was originally scheduled for September 9.
The decision came as a result of the controversy surrounding allegations of worshipping the devil, associated with the artwork on his customised necklace.
In the artwork used for the concert, Ikubor wore a customised necklace that has a burning church and inverted crosses.
The imagery sparked significant public outcry and condemnation and were viewed as disrespectful and offensive by many Ethiopians.
The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, with its deep cultural heritage and strong religious convictions, also condemned the symbols.
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.
An Ethiopian woman, interviewed by media personality, Ifedayo Olarinde, otherwise known as Daddy Freeze, confirmed her countrymen’s concerns.
She explained that Ikubor’s necklace led to accusations of him worshipping the devil, which ultimately resulted in the cancellation of his show by the Ethiopian Orthodox Church.
“They made a statement, like a press release in Ethiopia about Rema. Yes, you can imagine, it’s a very big deal.
“They’re basically saying he is worshipping the devil because of what he has on his neck. And to be honest, I never thought of it myself. And there’s more to it; to be honest.”
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