By Omonu YG Nelson
In a powerful Facebook post, Nigerian author and activist Reno Omokri has called out the tendency among some Black Africans to disparage their own heritage in a misguided attempt to conform to Western expectations. Omokri highlights the paradoxical reality that while many Black Africans seek to imitate Western culture, they are simultaneously gaining global recognition by embracing their own unique traditions.
Omokri points to the phenomenal success of Afrobeats music as a prime example of this phenomenon. For years, African artists struggled to gain international traction by mimicking Western musical styles. However, when Yoruba musicians began creating Afrobeats, a genre deeply rooted in their own culture, they achieved global stardom. Artists like Fela Kuti, Angelique Kidjo, D’Banj, Wizkid, Davido, Asake, Tiwa Savage, Adekunle Gold, and others have propelled Afrobeats to the forefront of the global music scene, captivating audiences worldwide with its infectious rhythms and authentic African sounds.
Omokri also draws parallels between the music industry and the political arena, noting that prominent Black Africans in the Western world, such as Wale Adeyemo (US Deputy Treasury Secretary), Kemi Badenoch (UK Cabinet Secretary), and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (DG WTO), have reached the pinnacle of success without abandoning their African names. Their achievements demonstrate that African heritage is not a hindrance to advancement but rather a source of strength and distinction.
Moreover, Omokri challenges the notion that adopting a foreign name or accent is a sign of sophistication or progress. He emphasizes that true success lies in embracing one’s identity, including their cultural heritage and native language. He reminds those who seek validation from the West that their African identity is inherent and cannot be erased.
Omokri’s message serves as a stark reminder of the importance of cultural preservation and self-acceptance for Black Africans. He urges them to celebrate their heritage and recognize that embracing their African identity is not a sign of backwardness but rather a source of pride and global recognition. By reclaiming their cultural power, Black Africans can not only enrich the world but also empower themselves to achieve their full potential.
@SummitPost