CITIZENS COMPASS —Some social media users have lambasted the Celestial Church of Christ, Land of Goshen Cathedral in Lagos, Nigeria, for its decision to invite secular musicians Pasuma and Portable to perform at a programme titled “Ankara/praise night event.”

A flier about the programme has since gone viral across social media platforms. 

The event is scheduled for Friday, December 15th, 2023.

The flier also featured the event’s host, Evangelist Sunday JP, and hip hop artiste May Shua, an Edo state native. The announcement triggered a wave of reactions on social media, with many Nigerians expressing their disapproval of the church’s choice to include secular musicians in a religious event.

Critics argue that such events should prioritize gospel music and feature artistes whose songs align with the church’s values and teachings. The controversy has sparked a debate about the appropriateness of blending secular entertainment with religious activities. Many believe that religious events should maintain a focus on spiritual and gospel elements to stay true to their purpose. 

As discussions continue, the Celestial Church of Christ’s decision to include secular artistes like Portable and Pasuma in its Ankara/praise night program remains a topic of contention among Nigerians, prompting reflection on the intersection of entertainment and religious expression.

However, Olatosho Oshoffa, the Shepherd-in-charge of the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) International Headquarters in Ketu has announced that no secular artists will perform at the programme.