Alhaji Tajudeen Alabi, popularly known as Istijaba, has responded to singer Portable (Habeeb Olalomi) over his claim that established Fuji musicians do not help upcoming artistes.
Istijaba, a respected Fuji musician from Ilorin who has now relocated to Lagos, stated that Portable was mistaken. According to him, many successful Fuji stars have supported younger artistes in different ways, and he himself is a beneficiary of such support.
He particularly praised Alhaji Sule Alao Malaika, saying the Fuji star played a major role in his career growth and helped create opportunities that enabled him to travel and perform beyond Nigeria.
Speaking on the matter, Istijaba said: “Portable was wrong. He does not understand how things are done in the House of Fuji Music. Fuji music is much bigger and broader than he thinks. Sule Alao Malaika is one of those who genuinely want others to succeed and grow in the industry.”
The artiste, formerly known as Taju Paso, is now frequently seen in the company of Sule Alao Malaika and continues to acknowledge the support he has received.
Why I Dropped Taju Paso and Became Istijaba, Istijaba also explained the reason behind changing his stage name from Taju Paso to Istijaba, a move that marked a new phase in his musical journey.
In another development, Sule Alao Malaika reacted to the controversy surrounding Portable’s comments. During a live performance, Malaika stated that he has supported numerous Fuji artistes over the years. According to him, his support has included: Sponsoring Hajj pilgrimages, assisting artistes who wished to travel abroad. Also is supporting album projects, providing financial and moral assistance to colleagues.
Malaika maintained that many Fuji musicians have benefited from such efforts and that helping others has always been part of the Fuji music tradition.
