Veteran broadcaster and journalist, Dele Adeyanju, has issued a strong response to mounting criticism accusing him of fueling division within the Fuji music scene. In a statement released on June 17, 2025, Adeyanju defended his platform, Agbaletu, and made it clear he has no regrets about the editorial choices he has made in over 15 years of reporting.
Allegations and Backlash
Adeyanju’s name has been trending in recent days over claims that his interviews, particularly those featuring former or disbanded members of popular Fuji bands, are fanning the flames of old rivalries. Critics say he is encouraging these individuals to publicly attack their former band leaders, with a particular focus on episodes involving ex-members of King Sunny Ade’s African Beats.
But Adeyanju is having none of it.
“I do not regret the way I carry out my work as a journalist,” he wrote. “So long as I operate within the laws of Nigeria, I will continue to ask questions, document voices, and seek out truth.”
He emphasized that the majority of his interviews are drawn from eyewitness testimonies or the personal experiences of his guests. “I’ve never forced anyone to speak. Every individual who has appeared on my platform did so willingly—either out of respect for the work I do, or because they had something they felt needed to be said.”
“I Have Gained More Enemies Than Friends”
The broadcaster acknowledged that his work has cost him relationships over the years.
“Many who supported me in the past have walked away simply because I aired opinions or revelations that touched their musical idols. That’s the cost of truth-telling in this business. But I do not care. This is my calling—my ministry.”
On Content, Captions, and Controversy
Adeyanju also addressed concerns about the provocative headlines and captions often used on his platform, conceding that they are sometimes crafted to attract attention. However, he insists they are always rooted in the actual content.
“Maybe I’m guilty of using suggestive captions to pull in viewers. But I never fabricate. If you watch the interview, you’ll see the context. Everything I tease in a headline is backed up by what is said on record.”
On Hosting Former African Beats Members
One of the flashpoints for the backlash appears to be Adeyanju’s decision to host former members of King Sunny Ade’s band, who shared difficult experiences from their time in the group. This move drew sharp criticism from diehard KSA fans.
“I have no regrets,” Adeyanju said bluntly. “And if I get the opportunity again, I’ll host another set. These are people with stories to tell—are they to be silenced because they lack money or formal education?”
He posed a direct challenge to critics: “Give me one reason why they don’t deserve to be heard.”
“No One Can Threaten Me Out of This Work”
Adeyanju reaffirmed his commitment to journalism and declared that no amount of online backlash or threats would drive him out of his passion project, Agbaletu.
“I have never blackmailed, libeled, defamed or slandered anyone. But I also refuse to be silenced. I’ve built this platform for 15 years, and I will not abandon it now.”
In a parting message, he addressed those cursing him and his work on social media, invoking Yoruba spiritual warnings against unjust curses:
“Epe ti awon omo yin ba le ru ni kee se. Eda ti ko ba sise epe, epe o le baa. Adabi ja, o ju epe lo.”
(The curse that will stand is the one your children can carry. If your spirit is clean, a curse won’t land. Karma is more powerful than any spoken word.)
The message ends with a firm declaration:
“Mo so’yi mo duro na.”
(I’ve spoken. I stand by my words.)