June 24, (THEWILL) – Popular Fuji musician, Adewale Ayuba, has revealed why he converted to Christianity. He said he chose Jesus Christ because he proclaimed, ‘I am the truth, the way, and the life.’ He also revealed how he almost gave up his interest in music, relocated to America, and became a citizen of the United States. Ayuba disclosed that he and his band member travelled to America for their three-month summer show in 1995 but could not return to Nigeria due to threats from late military head of state, Sani Abacha. The singer said he was threatened by the military government after he released an album advocating for the freedom of political detainees, particularly the late Moshood Abiola Kashimawo Abiola. The Fuji star said while in the US, he enrolled in school and almost gave up interest in music to pursue a career in academics. Ayuba said after Abacha’s demise, he returned to Nigeria to perform at the Benson and Hedges Concert in 1998.
“When I was in America, I realised that I could only perform shows on weekends. My Mondays to Fridays were free. So, I enrolled in school. That was where I met my wife. After that, I took part in a lot of activities. Doing so was like building another foundation in America. That was not easy. From there, I completed my documentation and became an American citizen. I don’t see myself continuing in Fuji music, I believe I have done well. This is America, there’s more to explore in life, trusting that God has a plan,” he said.
On his decision to convert from Islam to Christianity, Ayuba revealed that his decision was because he wanted to be closer to God more than anything but didn’t understand Arabic and was unable to pray in the language. This, he said, prevented him from practising Islam, adding that he would always invite clerics to pray on his behalf. He also said he was inspired by verses from the Bible quoting Jesus Christ as saying, “He is the way, truth, and life”.
Ayuba said the day he became a Christian was the happiest day of his life.
On his music career, Ayuba who said his parents were not favourably disposed to him going into music and entertainment, explained that he opted for Fuji music because the cost to acquire the instruments was invariably low compared to other kinds of music.
The 59 year old also revealed that he almost lost interest in Fuji music.
“I was thinking that if I finished my bachelor’s degree, I would go for my master, and P.hD to be a lecturer. I don’t want the level of being a Fuji musician, I believe I’ve done well, and I’m OK, this is America, let me choose another line.”
