By Fawaz Adebisi
Netizens have knocked the lead pastor at the Harvesters International Gospel in Lagos, Pastor Bolaji Idowu for his decision to invite and allow the performance of popular Nigerian artist Oludipe David, popularly known as Spyro, among other artists at the church’s christmas carol service.
The artists performance at the church’s carol on Sunday have stirred mixed reactions among attendees and online audiences.
In a flyer trending online, the church had invited celebrities such as Daniel Effiong, Bisola Ayeola, Dorathy Bachor, Sharon Ooja, Uzor Arukwe, Adeh Gbolahan, and Kenneth Ophopho for the event.
Many individuals have expressed their disapproval of the decision to feature a secular artist in a church event.
Criticism has emerged on various social media platforms, with Nigerians voicing their concerns regarding the appropriateness of inviting such artists to perform in a religious setting.
The move also prompted questions and debates among attendees and online users with different opinion on Pastor Idowu’s action as the lead preacher at the church to bring these artists into the event.
A social media user on X, @Shilehorlar1, while reacting to the development tweeted, “Funny how we’ve left holy vessels in the hands of unworthy people.
“I am not judging anyone, but if this menace is not addressed they will soon start to invite stripp*rs to church and find a justification 2 it
It takes a saved to save a drowning person can’t save anyone”.
Also, another user @Marki wrote, “It’s easy to spot fake pastors using Jesus name for their own selfish gains and bodily satisfaction.”
Sharing similar opinion, @Wal^ker, tweeted,”This is the reason I don’t go to church.. how can churches b inviting worldly music into churches”
Another tweep identified as @Obiasogu David, while airing his opinion tweeted, “Lovely how Nigerian churches are devising creative ways to “win souls.”
“The other day, Celestial Church invited Portable to “minister” to their members. Now, it’s Spyro.
“Odumodublvck and Shalipopi should be warming up, soon they’ll be headlining a crusade together to minister their hit song “Cast.” I’m sure heaven will be let loose and anointing will pour when they take the mic.Hope this helps”.
However, some users took side of the church, giving justification for the action.
A tweeter user @Enioluwa.V.A. wrote, “People that have never heard/listened to Pastor B teach are the ones with the most smelly takes.
“Spyro is a worker in the church, Skales participated in the last Bible Foundation course, what makes them less human to perform in the carol?Y’all have knotted bolts in your head.”
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Recall that recently there was controversy, which trailed the invitation of popular Fuji singer Pasuma and controversial Nigerian singer Portable, to perform at a Celestial Church in the same state.
