Bidemi Olaoba backlash grows after the gospel singer used the “Yakubu Manage” meme during a church praise session celebrating Pastor E. A. Adeboye

Nigerian gospel singer Bidemi Olaoba has sparked debate among Christians after incorporating a viral internet phrase during a live praise session at the 84 Hours of Marathon Messiah’s Praise event held in honour of Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye.

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The performance, which took place during the multi-day Christian gathering that began on March 3, quickly circulated online and drew mixed reactions from worshippers and social media users.

The concert featured several prominent gospel artists, including Dunsin Oyekan, Chioma Jesus, Simisola Agbebi and Toluwasings, who gathered to celebrate the 84th birthday of Pastor Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God.

However, Bidemi Olaoba’s energetic stage appearance became the most talked-about moment after the singer integrated the trending phrase “Yakubu Manage” into a praise segment.

The phrase emerged from a viral Nigerian internet meme in late February 2026 and is widely used in humorous online content.

Its appearance during a church praise session ignited criticism from some Christians who argued that blending secular trends with worship undermines the spiritual atmosphere of religious gatherings.

Several social media users said the moment reflected a growing shift in modern church praise events toward entertainment-driven performances rather than traditional worship.

Some critics described the development as troubling, arguing that praise sessions should remain focused on spiritual reverence rather than viral trends.

Others defended the gospel singer’s performance style, noting that contemporary gospel music often embraces creative expressions aimed at engaging younger audiences.

The Marathon Messiah’s Praise programme itself remains a major faith gathering celebrating Pastor Adeboye’s legacy and leadership within the Redeemed Christian Church of God, drawing thousands of worshippers and well-known gospel artists each year.

Despite the criticism, Bidemi Olaoba remains one of the most visible performers in Nigeria’s vibrant gospel music scene, known for his lively stage presence and interactive praise sessions.

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The latest controversy has nonetheless revived discussion within Christian communities about the balance between innovation, cultural relevance and spiritual authenticity in gospel music.