Davido is a Gospel Artiste, Zlatan is my Son - Pastor Tobi Adegboyega [VIDEO]

Flamboyant Nigerian pastor based in the United Kingdom, Tobi Adegboyega, has described popular Afrobeats musician David Adeleke, known as Davido, as a gospel artiste.

This statement was made during an episode of the "Off The Record" podcast, where Adegboyega elaborated on his unconventional view of gospel music.

Pastor Adegboyega, who is the founder of the Salvation Proclaimers Anointed Church (SPAC Nation), now known as the Nxtion Family, explained that the term "gospel" translates to "good news." He argued that Davido's music, particularly his hit song "Stand Strong," embodies this message of resilience and positivity, thus fitting the gospel narrative. "Gospel means good news. Everyone there is a gospel artiste. Davido is a gospel artiste. Have you heard: ‘Because I stand strong?’” Adegboyega stated.

The pastor's comments came in response to criticism regarding his decision to invite secular musicians, including Davido and Zlatan Ibile, to perform at his recent birthday celebration instead of traditional gospel artistes.

Adegboyega defended his choice by emphasizing the personal relationships he shares with these artists, describing them as friends who have supported him through thick and thin. "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," he explained.

Furthermore, Adegboyega dismissed criticisms from gospel artistes who questioned his approach to ministry. He expressed a preference for surrounding himself with supportive individuals rather than those who criticize or judge his choices. "If gospel artistes 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?" he retorted.

Adegboyega also highlighted his close bond with Nigerian artist Zlatan, whom he affectionately referred to as his son. "Zlatan is like a son to me; his kids are my kids, and his parents were in my house," he shared, underscoring the deep personal connections that influence his decisions.

The pastor concluded by affirming that his friends would always be part of his events, promising that future gatherings would continue to feature his supportive circle. "My friends will always sing at my events, and the next one will be bigger because my circle of friends keeps growing," Adegboyega affirmed.