Renowned gospel figure and current Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Gospel Musician Association of Nigeria, Funmi Aragbaye, has strongly criticized popular gospel singer, Tope Alabi, for her recent incorporation of the term ‘aboru aboye’ in a newly released song. The term, traditionally associated with Ifa worshippers, has stirred up controversy and raised questions about Alabi’s devotion to God.
Several Nigerian pastors have expressed conflicting opinions regarding Alabi’s use of ‘Aboru Aboye’ in her viral song. While some pastors see no issue with her choice of words, others argue that she should refrain from blending traditional terminology with gospel music.
Alabi garnered significant attention when a video of her singing in a church surfaced, featuring lyrics that included ‘Aboru Aboye,’ a phrase commonly associated with Ifa believers and initiates known as ‘Babalawo.’
During an exclusive phone conversation with a news correspondent, Aragbaye voiced her concerns, suggesting that Alabi exhibits a sense of superiority over both people and God. According to Aragbaye, Alabi is not affiliated with GOMAN or any other gospel association, displaying a belief that she transcends such memberships
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She said, ”Tope Alabi believes she is above everyone and God. She is not a member of GOMAN, nor is she a member of any other gospel association. She believes she is too much for it. She doesn’t belong to anyone; she is neither here nor there.
Aragbaye further expressed her belief that the prevailing state of the country contributes to people’s behaviour, leading them to take God’s mercy for granted. She also lamented the superficial worship prevalent today, where individuals merely pay lip service to God without genuine heartfelt devotion.
Efforts to obtain Alabi’s response to Aragbaye’s claims proved unsuccessful, as the gospel singer ignored messages and blocked the reporter on WhatsApp.
This is not the first time Tope Alabi has faced criticism. In 2021, she faced backlash for her remarks about colleague Adeyinka Alaseyori’s hit song ‘Oniduro Mi eseun o’ (my guarantor, I’m grateful). In a video circulating on social media, Alabi disputed the notion that God serves as her guarantor, stating that He surpasses such a limited role.
Alabi went on to criticize Alaseyori, suggesting that if the song had truly been inspired by the Holy Spirit, she would have comprehended the vastness of God’s presence and refrained from using such words.
After receiving severe backlash from fans, Alabi issued an apology to Yinka Alaseyori. Nevertheless, her involvement in numerous controversies raises questions about the unwavering nature of her faith in God.
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