Popular Nigerian pastor and relationship counselor Femi Lazarus has found himself in hot water after making controversial comments about women's menstrual cycles and relationships, triggering widespread condemnation across social media platforms.
The Controversial Comment That Started It All
During one of his relationship counseling sessions, Pastor Lazarus suggested that women use their "monthly flow" as an excuse to avoid intimacy with their partners. The clergyman claimed this was a common tactic employed by women to control or manipulate relationship dynamics, a statement that immediately set social media ablaze.
Social Media Erupts in Anger
Nigerian internet users didn't hold back their reactions to the pastor's remarks. Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook platforms became battlegrounds of criticism as thousands expressed their disappointment and anger.
One furious user declared: "This is the most irresponsible statement I've heard from a relationship counselor. Reducing women's natural biological processes to manipulation tactics is not only ignorant but dangerous."
Another commenter pointed out the insensitivity of the remark, stating: "Many women experience genuine discomfort and pain during their periods. To dismiss this as mere excuse-making shows a complete lack of understanding and empathy."
Celebrity Voices Join the Chorus of Criticism
The controversy didn't escape the attention of Nigerian celebrities, with several high-profile figures weighing in on the matter. Their reactions added fuel to the already raging fire of public opinion against the pastor's comments.
One popular actress commented: "When will religious leaders stop making sweeping generalizations about women? This kind of rhetoric contributes to the misunderstanding and stigmatization of natural bodily functions."
Broader Implications for Religious Counseling
This incident has sparked larger conversations about the role and responsibility of religious figures in providing relationship advice. Many are questioning whether such perspectives belong in modern relationship counseling, especially when they appear to perpetuate harmful stereotypes.
The backlash against Pastor Lazarus continues to grow, with calls for more sensitive and educated approaches to discussing women's health and relationship dynamics in religious and counseling contexts.
