Popular gospel singer, Evangelist Elijah Akintunde, was a guest on Parrot Xtra Ayekooto on Splash 105.5FM, anchored by Olayinka Agboola. In a wide ranging interview, he reflected on his early beginnings in music, the defining spiritual encounter that shaped his philosophy of growth over fame, and the sacrifice behind recording his first album, while also speaking on the distinction between secular and gospel music, concerns about character within the church, discernment in ministry relationships, and the urgent need for integrity, patience and genuine love in Nigeria today. Excerpt:
What significant changes have taken place in your life over the years?
There was a day I went to pray and told the Holy Spirit that I wanted to blow, meaning to become famous. The response I received was clear, you will not blow, you will grow.
There is a clear difference between growth and sudden fame. Someone who becomes famous quickly may shine briefly, but a person who grows moves steadily from one level to another.
When I reflect on the past 10 to 20 years, I see remarkable transformation. My current position is far better than where I was 10 years ago. God has taken me through progressive stages. He helped me overcome yesterday, and I strongly believe tomorrow will be better.
You were in the choir before releasing Olorun O S’obe. Did you compose other songs before that breakthrough?
Yes, I began composing songs at the age of 10. Although I do not have recordings of those early works, I was already writing music at that stage.
At 15, I became a choirmaster in our church in Ajaba under Ila Orangun. Music has always been part of my life. Olorun O S’obe brought wider recognition, but it was not the beginning of my journey.
Tell us about your song, Itiju Ayeraye…
I composed Itiju Ayeraye at 15 and released it as my first album at 20. I believed that since I had the gift, it was time to share it. The album contained five tracks.
At the time, I had limited knowledge of professional recording, so I received assistance. However, one week before the launch, I was informed that the recording quality was inadequate. I had no funds, so I approached my pastor and borrowed N10,000 to redo the recording, promising to repay him after the launch. By God’s grace, we completed the new recording one day before the event.
The launch was successful, and I repaid the money as promised. The song gained popularity within my community despite having no promoter. It was a local project, yet God used it mightily in that environment.
Apart from divine inspiration, how do you actually create your songs?
My inspiration comes from God. Sometimes, in the middle of an ordinary conversation, I begin composing internally. At other times, even if I isolate myself for days, nothing comes.
There is no fixed method. When God chooses to release a song, it comes. When He does not, human effort cannot manufacture it. I believe songs are given for divine purposes, not merely personal ambition.
Some argue there is no difference between secular and gospel musicians. What is your view?
There is a distinct difference. Secular musicians focus on their audience and objectives. A true gospel musician must prioritise soul winning and transformation. Once financial gain becomes the primary motive, the purpose is compromised.
Today, the lines appear blurred. Some who identify as gospel musicians are driven largely by profit. When music becomes more about trends and commercial returns than ministry, something fundamental has shifted.
Spiritual impact must always take precedence over material gain. You have worked with many pastors. What is your spiritual assessment?
In some gatherings, perhaps only one out of five pastors aligns spiritually with us. That is reality. Not every relationship is meant to be close. Discernment is essential.
Tell us about your song Ajisebosewu Olorun…
People describe God based on personal encounters. Some view Him as partial, others assign different names according to experience.
The inspiration for AjisebiOsewuOlorun came from a story shared by my spiritual father. It prompted deep reflection on how God entrusts authority to His servants, similar to Prophet Elijah in the Bible who declared that there would be no rain.
The song also addresses human pride. Even a humble person may react when pushed beyond limits.
There are profound lessons in it. At times, we pray and feel God is silent. Yet there is a season for everything. God responds in His own time and manner.
I once went to the mountain to intercede for someone who was critically ill. A prophet warned that if God granted my request, there would be a personal cost, that my own voice in destiny might be affected because many destinies are connected to mine.
I prayed that the person’s life would be preserved for as long as I could provide sustenance. Sadly, the person passed away. The prophet later explained that although I agreed verbally, my destiny did not align with that request. That experience strengthened my understanding that God’s will is supreme.
AjisebiOsewuni, sugbon ire ni O. He does as He pleases, yet it is always for good.
Churches are increasing, yet evil appears to be rising. How do you explain this?
The increase in churches is not inherently wrong. If one leader fails, God can raise another. The concern is that poor character is increasing alongside church expansion.
Pastors are regarded as role models, yet some are motivated by material gain. Certain prayer meetings are ineffective because requests are misguided. The Bible teaches that we sometimes ask and do not receive because we ask wrongly.
For instance, someone may pray to become a star among siblings, yet that may not align with destiny. Others pray against enemies while engaging in hostility themselves.
Singing gospel songs does not make me perfect. We must demonstrate love to Christians, Muslims, traditional worshippers, and musicians alike.
Not everyone will appreciate you, and that is acceptable. On one occasion, someone requested a colleague’s contact because they preferred his style. I shared it willingly. Love must be sincere.
What are the benefits of maintaining a clean heart?
Many challenges originate from within. When you rise unjustly against someone, opposition may arise against you. What you sow, you reap.
Guard your thoughts because negativity ultimately harms you. A pure heart produces peace and stability.
What critical element is lacking in Nigeria today?
Selfishness has become widespread. Genuine love for one another is diminishing. Many seek personal success but feel uncomfortable when others prosper.
If God blesses your neighbour, it means He is active in your vicinity. After completing His work there, He can reach you.
We also fail to learn from others’ experiences. Some individuals receive a calling yet refuse to wait for the appointed time. I know of a spiritual father who rejected ₦500 million because the source was questionable. In everything you do, the fear of God must remain the foundation.
Packaged by Temitope Afolabi and Kunle Ogunsola
