Cameroonian Gospel Singer Issues Public Rebuke to Nigerian Colleague Ebuka Songs
A significant controversy has erupted in the gospel music community after Cameroonian gospel singer Minister Etta publicly called out his Nigerian counterpart, Ebuka Songs, over allegations of disrespectful behavior during a recent performance in Cameroon. The drama unfolded on social media following an Easter Sunday event at Buea's Molyko Stadium on April 5, 2026.
Viral Open Letter Accuses Nigerian Singer of Pride and Arrogance
In a strongly worded open letter that quickly went viral across social media platforms, Minister Etta directly addressed Ebuka Songs, whose real name is Ebuka Hillary Emmanuel. The Cameroonian minister accused the Nigerian gospel artist of displaying "another level of pride" during his performance at the Christian event in Cameroon.
"My dear young brother, be humble, you hear? What you manifested today is another level of pride," Etta wrote in his public message. "We interact with senior ministers from your country, and they don't behave like that. So what you meant to say is that no minister could bless you? Not even your Nigerian sister?"
Background of the Controversy and Previous Incidents
According to Minister Etta, this was not the first time Ebuka Songs had displayed problematic behavior during visits to Cameroon. The Cameroonian singer explained that he chose to make his message public because the Nigerian artist had done the same during a previous visit to the country.
Etta shared a cautionary tale about a company in Cameroon that lost customers due to arrogant staff, using it as an analogy to emphasize the importance of humility in ministry. He also referenced Ebuka Songs' relatively recent rise to prominence, noting that the Nigerian singer came into the spotlight less than five years ago when fellow gospel artist Moses Bliss gave him a platform.
"I don't even think Moses can behave like this," Etta added, drawing a comparison between the two Nigerian gospel artists.
Representing Cameroonian Ministers and Issuing Stern Warning
Minister Etta claimed to speak on behalf of all Cameroonian ministers who attended the Easter event, including a Nigerian female minister who was also present. His message contained a stern warning to Ebuka Songs about respecting Cameroon and its people.
"I say this on behalf of all the Cameroonian ministers who were at that event, including your Nigerian sister: be humble, brother. You are still too young to be this proud, arrogant, and unethical," Etta declared. "Cameroon and Cameroonians are not to be disrespected like this. Let this be the last time you do that."
Mixed Reactions from Social Media Users
The public call-out has generated significant debate online, with social media users expressing divided opinions about Minister Etta's approach and the underlying issues.
Some commenters supported Etta's decision to address the matter publicly. Nnachi Praise commented: "Some times we hear the problem from the problem."
However, others questioned whether the criticism was properly directed. Dir Nganfahm Anoint responded: "Minister Etta we honor and respect you. But don't you think you're being extremist here? This message should be addressed to the organizer not him, I remember last year the Organizer asked him to stay in the car till it's his time, this year the Organizer might still have asked him to stay and wait, he didn't call himself on stage."
Bobuin Romans offered a different perspective: "Min Etta with due respect sir you are the one having pride. When people are bigger than you accept and tap grace from them."
Alfred Esingie suggested the issue might be more widespread: "I think this is common with young ministers, not particular to brother Ebuka! Strong meetings are held at 'big compound' to properly discuss with family members of the same characteristics. This is a long standing issue which needs a proper gathering amongst the right people to complain and air out how we feel."
Endah Rita questioned the public nature of the criticism: "With all due respect sir As a Fellow Minister I believe you should have corrected him behind rather than outwardly shocasing pride....."
Ebuka Songs' Recent Activities and Context
This controversy comes amid other notable activities involving Ebuka Songs. Recently, the Nigerian gospel singer posted a heartwarming video of him hosting Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali at his residence during the football international break. The video compilation showed Nwabali's arrival, them sharing a meal, and praying together, with the highlight being Ebuka presenting the goalkeeper with a portrait of himself.
Additionally, Ebuka Songs had previously reacted to a viral campaign billboard featuring President Bola Tinubu, using the opportunity to lament the current economic and security situation in Nigeria.
The public dispute between Minister Etta and Ebuka Songs highlights ongoing discussions about professionalism, humility, and cross-border relationships within the African gospel music community, particularly between Nigerian and Cameroonian artists who frequently collaborate and perform in each other's countries.
