I want to address a societal phenomenon that has gripped the African mindset for generations: the fear of juju and the herd effect it perpetuates. While life is already filled with struggles and challenges, humour and reflection can help us unpack these deep-seated fears.
The Juju Prank and Painted Images
A popular prank online features actors dressed as native doctors or juju priests appearing behind unsuspecting people. Their reactions? Pure panic. It’s fascinating to observe how a mere painted image or mimicry of juju can evoke such terror. Shakespeare once said, “It is only eyes of childhood that fear a painted image,” yet here we are, adults fleeing at the sight of costumes and props.
I’ve watched videos where someone retrieves a rosary from a supposed juju pot and hands it back to the owner, only for the owner to refuse it. Why? Because our minds have been conditioned to fear the devil more than we trust in God. We must ask ourselves: If our juju is so powerful, why are we so backward? Why were we colonized? Why does fear dominate our lives?
The Herd Effect
The herd effect—a psychological phenomenon where individuals follow the actions of a group—is deeply ingrained in our cultural and religious practices. In these pranks, when someone dressed as a juju priest appears, not only does the target flee, but bystanders also become passive. They watch helplessly as goods are “stolen” or as victims are “charmed.” This passivity reflects the exploitative power of religion and tradition in our society.
In one instance, a prankster attempted to “charm” a well-built man, who promptly lifted the “juju priest” off his feet, forcing him to admit it was a prank. Another man, a Muslim, accepted money from a supposed juju pot without hesitation. Yet, when the same prank targeted Christians, they abandoned their possessions and fled. This speaks volumes about the psychological grip religion has on certain groups.
Fear and Superstition
Our fear of juju stems from decades of conditioning. Once we see a calabash, red cloth, or white chalk, we panic. The mere suggestion that an old woman in the village is behind our misfortunes sends us into a frenzy. But does this fear make sense? Consider this:
Before and after their tenures, did Nigerian leaders like Buhari and Tinubu appear physically affected by curses or prayers? No.
Why do those who claim to possess juju powers live in poverty and squalor? My father once rejected a juju man’s offer to make him rich because the man’s living conditions were worse than his own.
If rituals truly brought wealth, why hasn’t any nation or football team using juju achieved global success, such as winning the World Cup?
The police in Delta State recently declared that killing people for money rituals does not produce wealth. Instead, it reveals a mindset consumed by evil. This love of money—the root of all evil—has led individuals to commit heinous acts, only to remain as impoverished as before.
True Power
History shows that colonisers took African artifacts and juju objects without suffering any supernatural consequences. Even thieves have stolen idols without repercussion. This demonstrates the futility of placing faith in lifeless objects. True power lies in the Most High God and in our Lord Jesus Christ. As He said, “All power has been given unto me. Go in my name.”
If you are filled with the Holy Spirit, why do you live in constant fear? Why does your faith revolve around detecting planted bottles and impending harm? The Holy Spirit is meant to lead us into truth and freedom, not keep us shackled by fear.
Breaking Free from Fear
The time has come to break free from the herd effect and the chains of fear. Develop your mind and faith to rise above superstitions and manipulations. As Africans, we must question beliefs that hinder our progress and embrace a mindset of empowerment and confidence.
I am Dr. Charles Apoki, and whether you call me your friend or not, my message remains clear: Believe in God, empower your mind, and refuse to be enslaved by fear and superstition. God bless you.
