Dr. Charles Akpoti, a Nigerian religious leader, has ignited a nationwide controversy by criticizing well-known general overseers for their silence amid the escalating violence and insecurity plaguing the country.
In a widely shared social media statement, Akpoti accused several church leaders of compromising their spiritual responsibilities due to their close affiliations with political figures. “Many general overseers in Nigeria remain silent about the ongoing killings because they are entangled in political interests,” he asserted.
He further lamented, “The Holy Spirit‘s presence has diminished in their congregations as they permit corrupt politicians to occupy their pulpits and deliver messages.”
These remarks have sparked renewed debate about the intersection of religion and politics, with Nigerians expressing polarized views across various online platforms.
Following Akpoti’s declaration, social media was flooded with diverse opinions. Some users applauded his boldness, while others cautioned that such statements might deepen national divisions.
One commenter remarked, “He is voicing a harsh but necessary truth,” reflecting the perspective of those who feel certain religious leaders have lost their moral compass. Similarly, Ifeanyi Ifebi commented, “His words resonate with reality.”
Conversely, some users disagreed. A participant using the name Its_Oladeni warned, “This kind of rhetoric risks exacerbating our fragile security challenges rather than resolving them. It threatens to fracture our unity and escalate internal conflicts.”