Gospel singer Sola Allyson and actor Lateef Adedimeji reunited on stage at Sola’s birthday concert on Wednesday at Regal Hall in Ikosi, Lagos, three years after facing criticism for a similar collaboration.
A video from the event showed Sola calling Lateef to the stage, addressing critics. She said, “Lateef is a creative, I am a creative, religion can’t separate us. Lateef is my brother, so you can do with that whatever you like. He is going to sing here today and if I know the song, I will join him. The song is going to be sweet and you will be blessed.”
When he joined her, Lateef briefly addressed the crowd and gave a Qur’anic recitation before singing.
Lateef shared his excitement on Instagram. “Yesterday was a surreal experience. I had the honor of sharing a stage with the birthday woman @thesolaallyson. Together, we dined with God in the language we understand. The fusion of our rhythm must have been a great meal God enjoyed yesterday. Happy birthday once again my sister, and thanks for the great experience. We do it again soon, right?”
Their performance recalls their 2022 collaboration, which attracted controversy due to Lateef’s Muslim faith. Back then, Sola had defended their partnership, saying, “Jesus is my perfect example. I live to uphold his essence, not religion. I will collaborate with simple-hearted people like me, regardless of the religion they practice, in spreading godly values.”
Lateef also spoke on faith and love, saying, “Every religion preaches love. Worship your God in truth and in spirit. I am a Muslim and shall die a Muslim. Being a Muslim doesn’t stop me from relating with Christians or anyone. Treat everyone with love.”
