Controversial British pastor Tobi Adegboyega has responded to the backlash over his decision to feature secular artists at his 2023 birthday party, instead of gospel performers, defending his choices and emphasizing the importance of loyalty and friendship over public opinion.
The founder of Salvation Proclaimers Anointed Church addressed the criticism in a recent interview on the Off the Record podcast, where he explained his reasoning behind inviting artists like Davido and Zlatan to perform at the event.
Adegboyega fired back at his critics, stating, “Gospel means good news. Everyone there is a gospel artist. Have you heard Davido’s ‘Because I Stand Strong’? That’s gospel music.” He pointed out that the performers at his birthday were not just any artists; they were his personal friends, many of whom had supported him through thick and thin.
The pastor elaborated, revealing that Davido himself had expressed a desire to perform at the event, saying, “I know you’re busy, but I just want to be there and perform for one hour.” Adegboyega emphasized that he didn’t pay any of the artists who performed, highlighting their genuine friendship and support for him. “They love me, and I will always give my friends platforms,” he said.
Addressing the backlash from some gospel artists and their supporters, Adegboyega questioned why he should prioritize public opinion over loyalty. “If gospel artists aren’t my friends and are instead joining the bandwagon to criticize me, what should I do? Drag them with a rope?” he asked. “It’s my friends that will be there if gospel people like me.”
The pastor firmly stood by his decision, insisting that the people in the room at his birthday celebration were all close friends. He also made special mention of Nigerian rapper Zlatan, referring to him as “like a son” to him. “His kids are my kids, and his parents were in my house,” Adegboyega stated, emphasizing the deep personal connection he shares with the artist.
In his closing remarks, Adegboyega made it clear that his friends would always be welcome at his events, regardless of whether or not they fit into the traditional gospel artist mold. “My friends will always sing at my events, and the next one will be bigger because my circle of friends keeps growing,” he declared confidently.
