By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
A controversy is currently raging across social media following an unexpected incident involving Nigerian gospel singer, Tope Alabi, and popular actress-turned-business mogul, Lizzy Anjorin.
Reports circulating online reveal that Tope Alabi was contracted and paid the sum of ₦2.5 million by undisclosed individuals to surprise a dear celebrant during a birthday party. However, upon her arrival at the venue, the gospel singer allegedly refused to step out of her vehicle after discovering that the celebrant in question was actress Lizzy Anjorin.
Despite 30 minutes of deliberation and persuasion, Tope Alabi maintained her stance and opted to refund the full amount paid for the appearance, citing undisclosed personal reasons. The incident, which occurred three days ago, has since gone viral, stirring intense debate among fans and critics alike.
While some social media commentators have applauded Tope Alabi for standing by her convictions, others have condemned her for what they described as an “un-Christlike” act. Critics argue that, as a gospel minister, Alabi should have seized the opportunity to demonstrate love and forgiveness, regardless of any personal history or moral judgment.
Reacting to the incident via her social media page, Lizzy Anjorin broke her silence with a strongly worded statement aimed at the gospel artiste, expressing disappointment over the development and recalling their past relationship.
“I am more holier than you, Aunty me Tope,” she said. “When the society was against you and tried to bring you down because your spiritual father in Christ, Ajanaku, was castigated as someone using voodoo and not Christ, I stood by you. We thank God today that you are back in the limelight which some enemies wanted to destroy.”
Anjorin further questioned Tope Alabi’s impact on society, contrasting their records of philanthropy.
“Aunty me Tope, what is your impact in the society? I have impacted lives more than you. I have empowered people, not just my staff or fans. You have only empowered your band members, not the society,” she added.
While denying any intention to escalate the matter online, the actress stated: “I won’t drag you. We both came from zero before getting to limelight. I will not judge you and you should not judge me. It is only God who knows who is truly godly.”
Anjorin went further by affirming her support for women in entrepreneurship and entertainment, saying she will never join any clique that seeks to tear down fellow women, even in the face of provocation.
As of the time of filing this report, Tope Alabi has yet to publicly address the incident or respond to Anjorin’s comments. Her silence has fueled further speculation about the reasons for her refusal to attend the event.
The incident underscores the intersection of celebrity culture, faith, and personal values in Nigeria’s entertainment scene and continues to spark diverse opinions across both local and international platforms.
