Jamaican reggae legend Buju Banton has revealed a surprising connection to his roots, disclosing that he has Igbo heritage from Nigeria. Speaking on the popular ‘Drink Champs’ podcast hosted by N.O.R.E and DJ EFN, Banton shared that his ancestors, the Maroons, originated from the Igbo tribe in Nigeria.
The reggae superstar voiced his concerns over the ongoing threat to the Maroons’ Indigenous land by the Jamaican government, which he claims is inviting Chinese and other foreign nationals into the sacred Cockpit region, aiming to displace the Maroons.
“Our Indigenous way of life and our land are under threat by the current Jamaican government,” Banton said passionately. “They’re bringing in Chinese and other nationalities into the Cockpit region, a place sacred to us, in an attempt to usurp us, the Maroons, who have always been the warriors of our land.”
Banton emphasized the deep connection between the Maroons and their African roots, particularly the Igbo tribe. “The Maroons are among the Indigenous warriors of my Island. We fought the British relentlessly, and we are known as Blackmaroons. My lineage traces back to Nigeria—I am an Igbo man by bloodline.”
This revelation highlights the rich cultural ties between Jamaica and Africa and underscores the ongoing struggles Indigenous communities face in preserving their heritage and land.
