Nigerian gospel singer, Tope Alabi, has found herself at the center of controversy following the circulation of a viral video in which she used the term ‘iyalaya’ during a ministration.

The video which circulated on Sunday, December 17, has sparked criticism on social media as it captures Alabi using the term in what appears to be an attempt to show respect and honor to veteran gospel singer, Bola Are.

In the video, Tope Alabi acknowledges Bola Are as an elder in the industry and urges her listeners to recognize the veteran singer’s prowess and creativity. Alabi uses the term ‘iyalaya,’ commonly associated with touts, to convey her acknowledgment of Are’s seniority.

“If you see Mummy Bola Are and I’m there all you need to do is to face me and say that is your ‘iyalaya’ I know she is my ‘Iyalaya’ and any young artist who does not recognize me as her ‘iyalaya’ is on her own,” Tope Alabi stated in Yoruba during her ministration.

The video has triggered a wave of criticism on social media platforms, with users expressing their disappointment in Alabi’s choice of words.

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Recall that this is not the first time Tope Alabi has been involved in video controversies. In a previous ministration, she used the phrase ‘aboru aboye,’ commonly used by a particular sect of traditional worshippers, leading to requests from traditional worshippers for her to identify with their group.

Furthermore, Alabi faced fierce criticism in June 2023 when she publicly criticized the popular gospel song ‘Oniduro Mi’ by Adeyinka Alaseyori. Alabi took issue with the term ‘Oniduro,’ used by Alaseyori to praise God, stating that God is not her guarantor. The incident generated heated discussions on social media, with Alabi citing guidance from the Holy Spirit as the basis for her criticism.

As the controversy surrounding Tope Alabi’s recent video continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the gospel singer will respond to the public backlash and whether this incident will impact her standing within the gospel music community.

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