03/24/2025
As a human rights activist, my role is to raise awareness about societal issues that affect the welfare and dignity of individuals, especially where exploitation and manipulation are involved. Over time, I've observed a concerning trend in the religious landscape, particularly in Nigeria. Many men of God, once seen as humble servants of faith, have transformed into entrepreneurs or business magnates. Religion, once a sacred calling, has increasingly become a full-time business. These men and women who were supposed to be intermediaries between the divine and the faithful are now the ones seemingly calling God, rather than being called by God to lead and serve.
When I spoke about this in an old video, I highlighted how the commercialization of religion is not just an issue of spiritual abuse, but a form of societal manipulation. Preachers, instead of providing spiritual guidance, are now focused on wealth accumulation, prioritizing material success over the well-being of their followers. This is damaging to both the spiritual lives of individuals and the social fabric of the community. People are being taught to value material wealth and status over virtues such as compassion, humility, and justice.
It’s deeply troubling that faith has become synonymous with financial transactions. The church, which should be a sanctuary for moral and spiritual growth, is increasingly resembling a marketplace where the poor and vulnerable are exploited for the enrichment of the so-called spiritual leaders. The focus on extravagant wealth, private jets, and lavish lifestyles of these leaders contradicts the teachings of humility and selflessness that faith is supposed to embody.
Regarding the recent video by Apostle Femi Lazarus, where he reveals a list of demands made by a Nigerian gospel artiste, including a staggering fee of $10,000, it is yet another alarming example of the commercialization of religion. This particular incident highlights just how deeply ingrained the idea of money-making has become in the gospel music industry. It seems that for some, ministry is no longer about spreading the message of hope and salvation but about cashing in on the masses' spiritual hunger.
It’s worth questioning whether the ministry has become so business-oriented that the core mission of gospel music, which should be about bringing people closer to God, has been overshadowed by financial demands. The gospel music industry, like other religious sectors, must examine its priorities. The commodification of faith not only disrespects the genuine, selfless work of spiritual leaders but also creates a dangerous precedent that manipulates followers into believing that their faith requires expensive payments.
The commercialization of religion in Nigeria, especially in the way it intersects with the gospel music industry, calls for serious introspection. We must return to the roots of faith and the true essence of serving others, not for profit, but for spiritual and social upliftment. I urge Nigerians to recognize that no man or woman of faith should exploit others for personal gain, and we must hold our leaders accountable for the way they use their platforms and influence.
This issue is bigger than any one individual; it reflects a broader societal problem where personal integrity and the well-being of the people are often sacrificed for profit. It is time for a collective action to take a stand against the corruption that has found its way into the very heart of religion.
The latest development in Rivers State, where President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has invoked emergency rule to suspend the Governor, Deputy Governor, and the House of Assembly, is deeply troubling and concerning for the very essence of democracy and the will of the people. This action is not just a political maneuver but a direct attack on the autonomy of Rivers State and the people's right to self-governance. It is a stark reminder of the fragility of democracy in Nigeria, where constitutional processes and the rule of law are increasingly disregarded for political convenience.
To the people of Rivers State, I have to say this: where is your resolve to defend your state? Where is the courage to stand up for the democracy that your ancestors fought for, and the freedom that many have sacrificed their lives for? How long will you remain passive in the face of such blatant abuse of power? The essence of democracy lies in the voice and the will of the people, and for too long, Rivers State has been subjected to the whims of those who seek to undermine its legitimate leadership. Your governor, the deputy governor, and the duly elected members of the House of Assembly are not just representatives of the political class; they are the voice of the people.
It is disheartening to see that, instead of standing by your leaders and demanding your right to self-determination, some in Rivers State are too passive in the face of this emergency rule. The people must rise and defend their democratic rights—this is your state, and you have a responsibility to protect its future. The absence of resistance only sends the message that this encroachment on your autonomy is acceptable, which it is not. The stakes are high, and a failure to defend your state today may set a dangerous precedent for future political exploitation in Nigeria.
Now, there is a pertinent question that must be asked: Are the people of Rivers State seriously expecting Asari Dokubo or Tompolo—figures who have historically wielded significant influence in the region—to be the ones to defend the state against this blatant encroachment on its governance? Will they be the ones to take the streets, or will they be expected to protest on your behalf while you remain passive?
Asari Dokubo and Tompolo are known figures with considerable influence in the region, but their role has historically been more centered on political and militant actions rather than peaceful advocacy for democracy and the rule of law. While they have been involved in the past with fighting for the rights of the Niger Delta people, the question is: can they carry the weight of an entire state's resistance to a federal overreach? Should the people of Rivers State not be the first to defend their own rights, through peaceful means, solidarity, and active engagement in the political process?
In this moment, it is critical for all of us to ask: Will Rivers State let a handful of individuals fight their battle, or will the collective will of the people rise to defend their governance, their rights, and their autonomy? This emergency rule is not just an attack on Governor Fubara; it is an attack on the people of Rivers State, their right to choose their leaders, and their ability to chart their own path.
It’s time for the people of Rivers State to stand with their governor and demand the respect for their democracy and statehood. If not now, when? History will judge those who remain silent in the face of such injustice. Let the people rise and show that their voices cannot be silenced.
It is time for the people of Rivers to know that Wike, Tompolo and Asari Dokunbo are fighting for themselves and not for the good of Rivers State.
I AM CHIEF Dr PATRICK OSAGIE EHOLOR OTHERWISE KNOWN AS ULTIMATE EQUAL, PRESIDENT ONE LOVE FOUNDATION
