Controversial self-proclaimed preacher, Pastor Tobi Adegboyega, has characterized renowned musician David Adeleke, better known as Davido, as a gospel artist.
During a recent episode of the Off The Record podcast, which gained significant attention on Monday, the founder of the Salvation Proclaimers Anointed Church, commonly referred to as SPAC Nation, elaborated that the word “gospel” translates to “good news,” and he feels that Davido exemplifies this concept through his musical work.
The charismatic pastor made these comments in response to criticism regarding his choice to feature secular musicians at his recent birthday event instead of gospel performers.
Additionally, Adegboyega shared insights about his close bond with Nigerian artist Zlatan, whom he affectionately referred to as his “son.”
He said, “Gospel means good news. Everyone there is a gospel artiste. Davido is a gospel artiste. Have you heard: ‘Because I stand strong?
Defending his choice of performers, he stated, “What I had then was my friends—friends who are there through thick and thin. Davido told me: ‘I just want to be there and perform for one hour.’ They’re my friends. I didn’t pay any of them. They love me, and I will give my friends platforms.”
Pastor Adegboyega criticized gospel artists who, according to him, were quick to judge his choices rather than build relationships.
“If gospel artists aren’t my friends and are instead joining the bandwagon to criticize me by asking, ‘Is that a church?’ What should I do? Drag them with a rope?
“It’s my friends that will be there. Everyone in that room was my friend. Zlatan is like a son to me; his kids are my kids, and his parents are in my house. So should I now say, ‘Well, because you are not gospel artists, let me go and look for some gospel artists who are criticizing me and force them to sing?” he asked.
Adegboyega emphasized that his friends will always take centre stage at his events, saying, “My friends will always sing at my events, and the next one will be bigger because my circle of friends keeps growing.”
