{
  "id": 1071142,
  "title": "Why I sang Christian song in Church — Popular Muslim singer Ere Asalatu",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/15/why-i-sang-christian-song-in-church-popular-muslim-singer-ere-asalatu",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-15T16:16:59.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Punch",
    "slug": "punch",
    "url": "https://punchng.com/why-i-sang-christian-song-in-church-popular-muslim-singer-ere-asalatu/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "AbdulKabir Alayande, known as Ere Asalatu, an Islamic singer, has explained his decision to perform a Christian hymn at a church event. He stated that Jesus Christ is recognized as Prophet Issa in Islam. This revelation came after social media backlash following clips of him singing the hymn \"Jesus is the only true friend\" during a church performance. Asalatu clarified that the Jesus referred to in the song is the same Jesus recognized as Prophet Issa in the Quran, the child of Mariam. He argued that Islam does not advocate for opposing Jesus and that Prophet Muhammad never denied his existence. The singer had initially decided not to speak publicly about the controversy but ultimately agreed to address the issue. He received encouragement from true Islamic leaders who appreciated his commitment to his faith despite the criticism. Asalatu thanked his supporters and critics, emphasizing that the controversy had helped him identify areas for improvement. He reaffirmed his dedication to Islam and his commitment to preaching the religion. Asalatu also criticized some Muslims for their rigid interpretation of religious teachings and called for religious tolerance.",
  "summary": "Popular Muslim singer Ere Asalatu clarifies why he sang a Christian hymn in church, addressing criticisms and emphasizing religious tolerance and unity. Read More: https://punchng.com/why-i-sang-christian-song-in-church-popular-muslim-singer-ere-asalatu/",
  "key_points": [
    "Ere Asalatu, a Muslim singer, performed a Christian hymn at a church event.",
    "He clarified that Jesus Christ is recognized as Prophet Issa in Islam.",
    "Asalatu received support from Islamic leaders despite criticism."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Punch Nigeria",
        "title": "Why I sang Christian song in Church — Popular Muslim singer Ere Asalatu",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/15/why-i-sang-christian-song-in-church-popular-muslim-singer-ere-asalatu-1074395",
        "published": "2026-08-15T16:36:59.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}