10 Lagos Superstitions People Still Believe Today
Lagos may be a bustling megacity filled with skyscrapers, traffic jams, and tech startups — but beneath the modern chaos lies a deep layer of tradition and belief. Whether you call them myths, old wives’ tales, or spiritual truths, superstitions in Lagos still influence how people act every single day. Here are 10 you’ll hear whispered in buses, markets, and even corporate boardrooms. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
1. Don’t Pick Money on the Road
Many Lagosians believe money found on the street could be “spiritually trapped” to bring bad luck or even cause mysterious illness.
2. Whistling at Night Calls Snakes or Evil Spirits
From Isale Eko to Mushin, elders warn children never to whistle at night — or risk attracting unwanted supernatural visitors.
3. Sweeping Someone’s Feet Brings Bad Luck
In some Lagos households, accidentally sweeping across someone’s feet means they’ll never get married — unless they grab the broom and sweep back.
4. Don’t Lend Salt or Palm Oil at Night
Believed to bring financial hardship or spiritual depletion, some people in Lagos will refuse politely if you ask for these items after dark.
5. Pregnant Women Shouldn’t Walk at Night
This stems from the belief that wandering spirits might harm unborn children or swap them for “spirit babies.”
6. Eating in Public at Night Attracts Evil Eyes
Some elders believe late-night outdoor eating could make you spiritually vulnerable.
7. Itchy Palms Mean Money is Coming (or Going)
Right palm itching? Expect money. Left palm itching? Money might be leaving you soon.
8. Don’t Kill a Wall Gecko in the House
Some Lagosians believe geckos carry messages from the spiritual realm and killing them brings bad luck.
9. Rain on Your Wedding Day is a Blessing
In Lagos culture, a downpour during weddings is often seen as a sign of divine favor and fruitfulness.
10. Never Sleep with Your Head Facing the Door
Many believe it invites spiritual attacks or bad dreams — so most beds are positioned away from direct doorway alignment.
Conclusion
Whether you believe them or not, these Lagos superstitions are more than just folklore — they’re part of the city’s cultural DNA. They connect the past with the present, reminding us that in Lagos, modern life and ancient beliefs walk side by side.