Nigerian religious leader Apostle Femi Lazarus has taken decisive action on his social media presence amid growing criticism over his controversial statements about United States President Donald Trump's comments on Nigeria.
Social Media Backlash Forces Action
The founder of Sphere of Light Church implemented comment restrictions on his official Instagram page following intense backlash from Nigerians, including fellow Christians. The platform now displays "Comments have been limited" on his posts, indicating the preacher has controlled who can engage with his content.
This digital retreat comes after Apostle Lazarus posted a viral video addressing President Trump's designation of Nigeria as a "country of particular concern" regarding alleged attacks on Christians. In the controversial clip, the religious leader argued that America's interest in Nigeria's affairs was not humanitarian but rather a strategic move to divide the nation for economic gain.
Controversial Claims About US Intentions
During his viral address, Apostle Femi Lazarus suggested that mineral-rich nations like Nigeria often attract external powers seeking control over resources. He referenced historical events during former President Goodluck Jonathan's administration to support his claims about international interference in Nigerian affairs.
The Apostle's perspective directly challenged President Trump's expressed concerns about Christian persecution in Nigeria. Rather than viewing the US position as protective, Lazarus framed it as potentially divisive and self-serving for American interests.
Nigerians React Strongly Online
The response from social media users was immediate and overwhelmingly critical. Prominent lawyer Inibehe Effiong expressed disappointment, stating: "I genuinely like @FemiLazarus_ and some of his messages. My admiration for him once led me to his Church, Sphere of Light in Ikeja, on a given Sunday for service. However, I have noticed that he has been changing in ways that aren't admirable."
Other users were more direct in their criticism. User spiricocoNg commented: "Femi Lazarus, one day you will stand before God and give an account. This man, Evangelist Ezekiel Dachomo, has buried more Christians murdered by Muslim terrorists than you have planted church branches."
The criticism extended to questioning his pastoral credentials, with user real_POK stating: "Femi Lazarus is a motivational speaker, he's not a pastor." Another user, kennethvifah77, described him as "a disgrace of a Pastor."
Pattern of Controversial Statements
This incident marks not the first time Apostle Femi Lazarus has faced public criticism for his statements. Legit.ng previously reported controversy surrounding the religious leader's comments about women's behavior during menstruation, which also drew significant backlash online.
The current situation highlights the growing tension between religious leaders and their congregations on political matters, particularly those involving international relations and national sovereignty.
As the conversation continues to evolve online despite the comment restrictions, many Nigerians await further developments in this ongoing discussion about the role of religious figures in political discourse and international relations.
