ERE ASALATU DEFENDS CHURCH PERFORMANCE, SAYS JESUS CHRIST IS PROPHET ISSA IN ISLAM
Read Time:2 Minute, 39 Second
By Aishat Momoh. O.
Islamic singer AbdulKabir Alayande, popularly known as Ere Asalatu, has defended his decision to sing a Christian hymn during a church performance, saying Jesus Christ is recognised as Prophet Issa in Islam.
The singer made the clarification during an interview with actress Biola Adebayo on her podcast, following criticism from some Muslims after a video of him singing the Christian hymn, “Jesus is the only true friend,” at a church surfaced online.
Explaining his decision, Asalatu said the Jesus referenced in the hymn was the same Jesus recognised as Prophet Issa in the Quran.
He said, “This Jesus we are talking about is Prophet Issa in the Quran, the child of Mariam. Is he no longer your friend? He is your friend, he is my friend. Prophet Muhammed didn’t deny Jesus Christ.”
The singer argued that Islam does not teach Muslims to oppose Jesus Christ, adding that he saw no contradiction in acknowledging Jesus during his performance.
“Islam didn’t tell us to go against Jesus. I don’t know where they found theirs,” he said.
Asalatu said he had initially decided not to grant interviews about the controversy but eventually agreed to address the issue publicly.
He disclosed that some Islamic leaders had privately contacted him and encouraged him to continue his work despite the criticism.
According to him, the leaders were knowledgeable about the Quran and understood the context of his actions.
The singer also thanked both his supporters and critics, saying the backlash had helped him identify areas where he could make corrections.
He, however, reaffirmed his commitment to Islam, saying he would continue to preach the religion.
“Islam is a good religion and I will continue to preach Islam till my old age,” he said.
Asalatu described Islam as a religion that promotes order and modesty and provides guidance on how adherents should live.
He, however, criticised what he described as overzealousness among some Muslims, particularly attempts to impose personal interpretations of religious practices on others.
The singer also called for religious tolerance, urging people to practise their faith without attempting to force others to conform to their beliefs.
“Everybody should serve their God in their own way. Call your God however you can. Everything we do has a reward,” he said.
Reacting to claims that he deserved to be killed or beheaded over his actions, Asalatu said such threats were unacceptable and disclosed that one critic had allegedly called for him to be beheaded.
He also questioned some criticisms directed at music, photography and other forms of artistic expression, arguing that religious teachings should be considered in their broader context.
Defending his music, Asalatu asked critics whether his songs promoted disbelief or insulted anyone.
“Did I abuse your mother with my song? Did my song say there is no God?” he asked.
The singer further expressed concern that overly rigid interpretations of religion could discourage some people from practising their faith, urging Muslims to promote love, peace and unity instead.
“Islam is not a troublesome religion. Islam is not a religion that kills. Islam is a religion of unity. Islam is a religion of love and peace,” he said.
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