Ace Fuji singer Adewale Ayuba has set the record straight regarding his religious beliefs amid ongoing speculation, News About Nigeria reports.
During an interview on comedian Teju Babyface’s ‘King of Talk’ podcast, which was shared on YouTube Tuesday, Ayuba questioned those who claimed he is a Muslim whether they have seen him in a mosque.
“People claim Ayuba is a Muslim. Have they seen me in the mosque? If I were practising Islam, wouldn’t someone have noticed?” Ayuba asked.
“Why is this an issue? Can they let me be? They say I should pray five times daily, but I’m not; yet, no one has approached me. Perhaps they’re indifferent to my life.”
Ayuba elaborated on his upbringing, revealing that his household practiced Islam, with his mother being an Alhaja.
“My name is Ayub, which is Job in the Bible. When you mention Anabi Isa, you’re referring to Jesus Christ,” he explained.
However, he said that he could not practice Islam because he didn’t understand Arabic.
“When I attempted to practice it, I had to summon some Alfas to help me communicate with God because I didn’t understand Arabic. I questioned whether I should continue despite all that God has done for me, needing others to intercede on my behalf.”
The Fuji star expressed disappointment with the way religion is practiced in Nigeria and addressed accusations that he had labeled Muslims as killers.
“Would I call my mother a killer? There isn’t an album of mine where I haven’t referenced Muslim words. We worship God,” he said.
According to him, it was his personal choice to follow Christianity, as it brings him happiness. He added that he prefers to worship where he feels closest to God.
“To me, religion is akin to education. However, I chose Jesus Christ because he proclaimed, ‘I am the truth, the way, and the life.’ This is my personal choice, and it brings me happiness. He invites us to reach out to him exclusively,” he stated.
Despite his faith, Ayuba said he maintains a harmonious relationship with his Muslim band members.
“Many of my band members are Muslims, and we pray together. Would I reject their prayers in Arabic, believing they are cursing me? Consider that Moses is Musa and Ibrahim is Abraham,” he noted.
