Tope Alabi, a popular gospel singer in Nigeria, has sparked a debate among social media users after she was seen using a Yoruba traditional greeting in a church service.
The greeting, Aboru Aboye, is commonly used by Ifa priests and devotees to acknowledge the power and blessings of the divinities.
However, some Christians consider it inappropriate and disrespectful to use such a greeting in a church setting, as they believe it contradicts their faith.
A video clip of Tope Alabi using the greeting while ministering in church went viral online, attracting mixed reactions from her fans and critics.
Some praised her for being culturally aware and respectful of her roots, while others questioned her spirituality and accused her of being an idol worshipper.
One user commented: “Why are people defending what they can’t? The greeting is limited to only the idol worshippers, most especially the Ogboni confraternity. Aboru Aboye; then the recipient would answer Aboye Bosise. If you’re still doubting this as a Yoruba person, please try to greet your parents by saying Aboru Aboye then come back to give me feedback.”
Another user wrote: “She’s not supposed to use that word but if you think she is right then why are we not saying ase in church instead of Amen??”
Tope Alabi has not responded to the controversy yet, but some of her supporters have defended her by saying that she was only using the greeting as a form of expression and not as a sign of allegiance to any other religion.
They also argued that there is nothing wrong with appreciating one’s culture and heritage, as long as it does not interfere with one’s faith in God.
The debate over Tope Alabi’s use of Aboru Aboye reflects the tension between Christianity and traditional African religions in Nigeria, where many people still practice both or have syncretic beliefs. It also raises questions about the role of language and culture in religious expression and identity.
