Pastor Bolaji Idowu of Harvesters International Church Centre in Lagos has ignited a significant online controversy. The debate centres on the perceived prioritisation of celebrities over everyday congregants, following the cleric's decision to share specific photos from his church's New Year's Eve event.
The Viral Photos and Immediate Backlash
The controversy began when Pastor Bolaji Idowu posted pictures from his church's 'RESET' crossover service held on December 31, 2024. The four images, shared on his social media pages, featured beaming attendees. Among them were notable celebrities, including popular streamer Peller, who was making a public appearance after his involvement in a car crash, and renowned skit makers Broda Shaggi and Sir Barlo Comedy.
These photos quickly gained traction on the social media platform X, formerly Twitter. However, the virality was accompanied by a wave of criticism directed at the pastor. A significant number of netizens expressed their displeasure, arguing that the post highlighted celebrities, influencers, and TikTok stars while overlooking the contributions of long-term worshippers and dedicated volunteers such as ushers and choristers.
Divided Opinions: Social Media vs. Soul Winning
The core of the criticism accused Harvesters International Church of prioritising social media appeal and online clout over genuine spiritual community. Critics suggested that the church's media team was more focused on showcasing famous faces to attract attention rather than celebrating the faithful members who form the backbone of the congregation.
One X user, Warepamorsammy, commented: "There are workers that make the church work, people who make consistent sacrificial effort to keep the auditorium clean and neat ready for the service... you will never post and showcase their faces here you are showing public figures." Another, UcheMaryOkoli, echoed this sentiment, stating the post was using celebrities to advertise for more "customers," while those who clean the church facilities are ignored.
However, not all reactions were negative. A faction of online users defended Pastor Bolaji's actions. Their counter-argument was straightforward: celebrities also need salvation, and such posts could serve as a modern tool for evangelism, potentially drawing more people to faith by showing that church is a place for everyone, regardless of their social status.
Broader Context and Related Incidents
This is not the first time Pastor Bolaji Idowu's interactions with celebrities have drawn public attention. In related news, he previously went viral for acknowledging music star Tiwa Savage and her son, Jamil, during a church service. A clip showed the pastor expressing his happiness at their presence.
Furthermore, the pastor has a history of publicly supporting celebrities in their endeavours. He was previously reported to have offered prayers and encouragement to celebrity chef Hilda Baci before her attempt to cook the world's largest pot of Nigerian jollof rice, an act that also sparked mixed reactions online.
The recent crossover post also sparked lighter, side conversations about church etiquette. Some users, like sweetguyvictor and Neversleeps_HQ, humorously questioned why Peller was allowed to wear a cap inside the church, a practice typically frowned upon in many Nigerian congregations.
The incident underscores a growing tension in the digital age between traditional church values and modern marketing strategies. It raises questions about representation, the value of members, and how religious institutions navigate their public image on social media platforms.
