Afrobeats star Timaya has stated that fellow musician Eedris Abdulkareem is not widely respected in the music industry because of his outspoken nature. Timaya shared this during a recent interview on Naija FM, Lagos, where he addressed comparisons between their personalities.
When the host suggested that both artists were figures others in the industry would avoid picking a fight with, Timaya disagreed, emphasizing the difference in their approaches.
“I don’t talk like Eedris. I don’t behave like him. Nobody is afraid of him because he talks too much. He has always been a talkative,” Timaya said. “I don’t even want people to be afraid of me. I respect myself so that people will respect me.”
Reflections on Their Past Relationship
Timaya also reflected on his earlier days as a band member under Abdulkareem’s leadership, describing it as a professional relationship rather than a personal one.
“I have never had any problem with Eedris. It was just a relationship of the boss and apprentice,” Timaya explained. “I don’t even think he knew my name at that time. I only give him a shoutout because he was part of my success story.”
However, Timaya criticized the way Abdulkareem treated those working under him, suggesting a lack of genuine connection.
“When people are serving you, don’t act like you’re tolerating them. Treat them like family because you don’t know tomorrow,” he added.
While Timaya acknowledged Abdulkareem’s role in his career development, his comments highlight a strained dynamic rooted in past interactions.