In the last two years, over 400 Nigerians have been deported from the United States, and a staggering 900 in the past six years, according to reports from U.S. immigration authorities. The deportation figures have sparked a wider conversation about the rising influence of spiritualists in Nigeria, as many citizens seek help from Alfas, Babalawos, and other spiritual leaders to navigate these tumultuous times.
Amid Nigeria's worsening economic climate, many Nigerians turn to spiritual leaders for guidance, particularly in dealing with what they believe are supernatural attacks on their prosperity. With an economy in crisis, many citizens perceive their misfortunes as the result of "evil forces" rather than structural issues, creating a booming business for spiritualists.
Deportation fears, especially among Nigerians with unsettled immigration status in the U.S., have intensified this trend. According to sources, over 50% of Nigerians in the U.S. have family or friends back home, and those whose immigration papers remain incomplete are sending large sums of money to spiritualists in Nigeria in hopes of securing protection from deportation.
Some spiritualists have capitalized on this widespread fear, riding in expensive cars and living luxurious lives funded by the large remittances from their overseas clients. One anonymous individual, speaking to Nigerian Standard Magazine, revealed that the volume of money and property being sent home is unprecedented, as Nigerian migrants, worried about their status, continue to rely heavily on spiritual aid.
Early morning visits to spiritual practitioners are common, with many Nigerians seeking intervention for themselves, their families, and their loved ones abroad. These practitioners have become powerful figures, providing not just spiritual solutions but also the financial means to thrive in an environment where uncertainty and fear prevail.
