Veteran Nigerian on-air personality Daddy Freeze has sparked controversy by revealing his abrupt departure from Alex Ekubo’s service of songs, blaming gospel singer Mercy Chinwo for what he described as an inappropriate performance. In a candid Instagram live session over the weekend, Freeze explained that he walked out mid-ceremony because Chinwo’s energetic delivery turned the solemn event into a concert-like atmosphere.
According to Freeze, the singer took to the pulpit and transformed the venue into a performance stage, which he found disrespectful given the occasion. He questioned, “Does Mercy Chinwo not have soft music?” and insisted that funerals should be characterized by gentle, reflective hymns rather than upbeat performances. He stated that he would have gladly remained seated if hymns had been played for two hours, but instead felt compelled to leave when Chinwo began her routine.
The service of songs, held last Wednesday in Lagos, drew a host of prominent figures including gospel artists, pastors, Nollywood stars, and media personalities. Among the performers were Mercy Chinwo, Peterson Okopi, Moses Bliss, Ebuka Songs, and the Laud Urban Choir. Freeze’s comments have ignited debate about the appropriate tone for funerals and the role of gospel music in such settings.