By Wasiu Adeniyi
CITIZENS COMPASS– In what many have hailed as a long-overdue reconciliation, Nigerian gospel artist Lanre Teriba, popularly known as Atorise, and Prophet Israel Oladele Ogundipe, also known as Genesis, have put an end to their long-standing feud. The two prominent figures made peace during the final ceremony of fellow gospel singer Dele Gold, but the reconciliation has stirred strong reactions from fans and followers, especially regarding the way Lanre Teriba addressed Prophet Genesis during the event.
The long-awaited reconciliation
The feud between Lanre Teriba and Prophet Genesis had spanned several years, with both parties at odds over personal issues that spilled into the public domain. Their fallout became widely known, drawing attention from fans, congregants, and the media alike. However, at the final ceremony of Dele Gold, a well-known gospel singer and associate of both men, Teriba took the opportunity to reach out to Genesis in front of the audience.
While performing on stage, Lanre Teriba paused to address the prophet directly. He called Prophet Genesis by name, recalling how he had been present at the naming ceremony of the prophet’s child 25 years ago. This moment, meant to be a gesture of goodwill and reconciliation, was captured in a YouTube video titled,”Ọpẹ o, Atorise ati Oluso Ogundipe Genesis ti pari ija olojo pipe nibi eto ayeye ikehin Dele Gold”, which translates to, “Thank goodness, Atorise and Ogundipe Genesis have finished their age-long fight at Dele Gold’s final ceremony.”
Fans reactions: A controversial moment
Despite the seemingly positive nature of this public reconciliation, the way it unfolded has left some fans less than impressed. The specific issue of contention revolves around how Lanre Teriba addressed Prophet Genesis on stage. Many fans have voiced their concern that Teriba did not show the proper respect to the prophet, a revered spiritual leader. Instead of addressing him with titles or deference, Teriba referred to him in a familiar tone, using his name and discussing their personal history in what some perceived as a casual manner.
Social media platforms have been abuzz with mixed reactions. Some have praised the move, celebrating the fact that two influential figures in the gospel community have finally ended their disagreement. However, others have criticized Lanre Teriba’s approach, stating that his manner of addressing the prophet did not align with the spiritual respect and authority traditionally afforded to a man of Prophet Genesis’ stature.
Criticism over lack of formality
Critics argue that while reconciliation is important, the manner in which it is done is equally significant, especially when it involves a figure like Prophet Genesis, who commands deep respect as a spiritual leader. The general consensus among these critics is that Teriba, as a public figure and believer, should have adhered to cultural and spiritual norms by addressing Genesis with more reverence-using his full title, “Prophet” or “Spiritual Father,” rather than calling him by name.
One of the fans wrote on social media, “This isn’t how you talk to a prophet, especially in a public setting. It’s a lack of respect for his spiritual authority.”
Another fan remarked, “Lanre Teriba could have reconciled without undermining the office of the prophet. He has done well by making peace, but he should have shown more humility.”
A deeper look: Culture, religion, respect
In Nigerian society, especially within religious circles, respect for spiritual leaders is paramount. The perceived casualness in Teriba’s tone may have rubbed many the wrong way because it contrasts with the high level of formality and deference usually expected in such settings. Prophet Genesis is seen not only as a gospel minister but also as a spiritual authority figure with devoted followers. Many believe that public interactions with him should reflect that reverence, especially in a moment as significant as this reconciliation.
Some fans, however, have defended Teriba, suggesting that his direct approach reflected sincerity and familiarity, given their long history together. To them, the personal nature of the exchange highlighted the depth of their past relationship, rather than a lack of respect.
Moving forward: Reconciliation Is the goal
Despite the mixed reactions, many agree that the most important outcome is that the feud between Lanre Teriba and Prophet Genesis has come to an end. For years, their fallout divided their supporters and raised questions about unity within the Nigerian gospel community. With this public reconciliation, there is hope that both men can move forward, heal, and continue to serve as positive influences in their respective spheres.
Still, the conversation surrounding respect, cultural expectations, and religious protocols remains ongoing. Whether intentional or not, Teriba’s approach has sparked a necessary discussion on how public figures engage with spiritual leaders and the delicate balance between personal history and public reverence.
In conclusion, while the end of the feud is a cause for celebration, the manner in which it unfolded has left room for reflection. As fans and followers continue to debate the issue, one thing is clear-respect within the spiritual space is not just about the act, but also about how it is performed. Whether Lanre Teriba’s approach was an oversight or a personal choice, the reconciliation between him and Prophet Genesis marks a new chapter for both, and the gospel community is watching closely to see what follows.
