Ethics and Politics of Tope Alabi’s “Aboru, Aboye, and Abosise” Utterance

Tope Alabi is one of the Nigerian gospel singers who has composed several songs and acted in some Nigerian movies through the use of her music. Like other Yoruba musicians, Tope Alabi is not exempt from using Yoruba’s cultural values and norms in her music. However, she was recently under severe criticism from the public on the basis that she uttered “Aboru Aboye Abosise”, a Yoruba cultural expression associated with the worshippers and followers of Ifa, in one of her performances at a particular church. Our checks reveal that the expression is a statement to greet Babalawo, the Ifa diviner.

Information has it that “Aboru Aboye Abosise” are three important women in the practice and worship of Ifa, one of the Yoruba traditional gods. The Babalawo will respond, “Ogbo ato o!” I salute and respect all the important women in the world, and Ifa blesses you all. Some of the existing sources on how the expression is being used suggest that it is a secret language of power among those who have indeed been initiated in Ifa. This, according to our analyst, accounts for why people from different religious backgrounds have been calling out the singer, saying she does not represent Christianity. On the other hand, members of the Ifa are extending olive hands to her, calling her to truly associate with them instead of pretending.

In this piece, our analyst reports insights gleaned from more than two days of monitoring the discussions on the issue using digital media platforms. Five reaction schools with the intention of appreciating and shaming the singer and three dominant ideologies emerged from the monitoring.

Discourses from the Reaction Schools

Cultural and Religious Sensitivities

One aspect of the debate revolves around cultural and religious sensitivities. Some individuals argue that using Yoruba expressions associated with traditional religion in a Christian context is inappropriate. They believe that gospel singers should adhere strictly to Christian principles and avoid any association with traditional beliefs. From this perspective, Tope Alabi’s use of the words is seen as a violation of religious boundaries.

Freedom of Expression

On the other hand, supporters of Tope Alabi emphasise her freedom of expression as an artist. They argue that artists should be allowed to draw inspiration from different sources, including cultural and traditional elements, to create their art. They believe that the use of Yoruba expressions does not necessarily compromise Tope Alabi’s Christian faith or the message she intends to convey through her music. This viewpoint highlights the importance of artistic freedom and creativity.

Cultural Appropriation

Another dimension of the discussion centers around cultural appropriation. Some individuals argue that Tope Alabi’s use of the Yoruba expressions without adequate understanding or respect for their cultural significance amounts to cultural appropriation. They view it as a form of exploitation or disrespect toward Yoruba culture and religious traditions.

Context and Intent

A critical aspect of the debate is the consideration of context and intent. Supporters of Tope Alabi argue that the intention behind her use of the words is crucial in understanding her performance. They suggest that her purpose might have been to connect with her audience, evoke certain emotions, or express her cultural identity. They emphasise that interpreting her use of the words solely based on their traditional religious connotations might oversimplify the situation.

Religious Pluralism

The discussions also touch upon the idea of religious pluralism and tolerance. Some individuals argue that in a diverse society, it is essential to recognise and respect different religious and cultural practices. They believe that religious boundaries should not limit artistic expression and that there can be room for intermingling of cultural and religious elements without compromising one’s faith.

Dominant Ideologies

Religious Orthodoxy

Some tweets reflect a dominant religious ideology that emphasises strict adherence to particular beliefs and practices. These tweets criticize Tope Alabi’s use of Yoruba expressions in a Christian context, arguing that it deviates from established norms and boundaries of the faith.

Fundamentalism

Certain tweets might exhibit fundamentalist ideologies, emphasising a strict and literal interpretation of religious texts. These tweets criticise Tope Alabi’s incorporation of Yoruba expressions, considering them as syncretism or impurity within the religious context.

Pluralism and Inclusivity

Conversely, tweets reflect a more pluralistic and inclusive ideology that celebrate Tope Alabi’s use of Yoruba expressions as a way to embrace cultural diversity and promote unity. The tweets argue for a broader understanding of faith that incorporates various cultural influences.