Nigerian gospel singer Ezra Jinang has faced strong criticism on social media over a new song praising First Lady Remi Tinubu. The song calls her “Maman Talakawa”, which means “Mother of the Poor”.
Jinang is a pastor from Plateau State. He also works as Special Assistant on Entertainment to Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, according to ZAlebs.
He released the track on Saturday, before the APC convention in Kaduna. Many fans said the song was out of place while Nigerians face hardship and poverty.
“History will remember who stood for the people and who sang for power while Plateau was bleeding,” social commentator Sargwak Amos said.
Amos was one of the first people to respond. He accused Jinang of keeping quiet about killings and attacks on communities in Plateau State. He also claimed the singer was chasing political favour and personal gain.
Some listeners defended the singer. They said gospel musicians have the right to celebrate political leaders if they choose.
Critics asked why the First Lady was called a champion of the poor. They pointed to higher living costs, hunger and insecurity in many homes. Some said Jinang had moved away from his religious calling.
Rillz Michael Mangai said he was a long-time fan of the singer. He said Jinang should think about the message in the song’s title. Mangai asked what proven achievements made a political figure the “Mother of the Poor”.
David Ishaya said gospel artists can take part in politics and support any leader. But he said loyalty to a party should not come before truth and compassion. He said he would rather hear Jinang push leaders to help vulnerable people.
Ishaya said leaders should be praised for real results and challenged when they fail. He said praise for the First Lady could give a false picture of success.
Benjamin Jatau sent four questions to the singer. He asked which actions by Remi Tinubu backed up the title, and how citizens could check them. He also asked how Jinang keeps his ministry separate from political campaigns.
Jatau said the new song was poor, even though Jinang is a skilled musician. He suggested the singer may have moved away from his main talent.
Paul Kunzaar said the pulpit should stand for honesty and accountability, not political promotion. He said more gospel figures were now openly praising politicians.
Walshak Silas said Jinang used to be his favourite gospel musician. He said he would no longer follow the singer’s music after the song. Silas called the title untrue and said Jinang had abandoned spiritual leadership while Nigerians faced growing hunger.
Source: this article is based on reporting by ZAlebs. Image: ZAlebs. Written with the help of AI and published by the Tzaneen Voice Entertainment desk. See our Editorial Standards.
Rirhandzu Baloyi writes about entertainment for Tzaneen Voice. Rirhandzu covers South African music, film, TV, streaming, awards and celebrity news, from amapiano and local soapies to Showmax and Netflix releases. Stories stick to what happened, who was involved and when fans can watch or listen.