Inspirational singer Sola Allyson has reflected on her early life, revealing that she was exposed to different religions while growing up, including Islam and Christianity, depending on her living environment at the time.
In an interview, Allyson explained that as a child, she had little influence over the religious path she followed, noting that her surroundings largely shaped the faith she practised.
“As a child I didn’t have the control to make certain choices. I had to practice the religion they practiced in the places I lived,” she said.
The singer disclosed that her upbringing was rooted in Islam whenever she lived with members of her family who were Muslims, including her mother, aunt and grandmother.
“My mother is from a Muslim background and so is my aunt and grandmother so I practiced Islam when I lived with them,” she noted.
She further revealed that her religious experience later changed when she moved into a Christian home, where she also participated fully in Christian worship.
“When I moved to another place where they practiced Christianity I also worshipped with them as a Christian,” she said.
Despite practising different religions at various stages of her life, Allyson emphasised that her personal connection with God transcends religious classifications.
“Personally, knowing God’s love is more important than religion,” she said.
She also highlighted the importance of tolerance and harmony among people of different faiths, stressing that interacting with others does not equate to adopting their religious beliefs.
“If I’m with you and you’re a Muslim we will definitely have a good time, if I’m with you and you are a traditionalist we will also have a good time. The fact that I’m talking with you doesn’t mean that I have adopted your faith,” she said.
Urging mutual respect, the singer called on Nigerians to embrace peaceful coexistence and refrain from religious hostility. “We all can practice our religion respectfully. We don’t have to hurl insults at each other. God is one,” she added.
