Portable Condemns Nigerian Pastors for Silence on Jos Terrorist Attacks
Controversial Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola Badmus, widely known as Portable, has launched a scathing criticism against pastors in Nigeria for their perceived silence following the deadly terrorist attacks in Jos, Plateau State. The attacks, which occurred on Palm Sunday, March 29, resulted in numerous Christian fatalities and sparked widespread outrage across the nation.
Accusations of Hypocrisy and Inaction
In a viral video that has circulated extensively on social media platforms, Portable accused Nigerian pastors of blatant hypocrisy. The Afrobeats artist, famous for hits like "Zazu," pointed out that while pastors often travel in bulletproof vehicles to ensure their personal safety, they fail to speak out or take decisive action when their congregation members are targeted and killed by terrorists.
"Why are Nigerian pastors not fighting for Christians? They use bulletproof cars, yet their followers are dying," Portable questioned in the video, highlighting what he sees as a stark contradiction between their self-protection and their public silence.
Call for Protests and Leadership
Portable expressed bewilderment over why pastors are not organizing or leading protests to Aso Rock, the seat of Nigeria's presidential power, despite the recurrent killings of Christians. He drew comparisons to other religious groups, asserting that Islamic clerics would never remain quiet if Muslims were attacked in a similar manner.
"Why can't pastors lead a protest to the Aso Rock? You can't harm a Muslim, and there won't be chaos. If you kill a traditionalist, there will be a crisis. But if you kill a Christian, the pastor will look away and be enjoying in his car," the singer elaborated, emphasizing his belief that pastors are neglecting their moral duty to advocate for their followers.
Public Reactions and Online Debate
Portable's remarks have ignited a fervent debate online, with many Nigerians weighing in on the role of religious leaders in condemning violence and protecting their communities. Social media users shared diverse perspectives:
- @stnweme commented, "They're still busy with preaching tithes and offering. So long as it doesn't affect their sources of income, you won't hear many of them speak for the persecuted Christians."
- @oyat09 added, "Many Nigerian pastors are politicians weaponizing biblical doctrines against their followers, same as the slave merchant. Let them trust in hope in the after life and take from their flesh. Theopoliticians. Even the Imams do same. Weaponize religion."
- @thopsaw noted, "Actually pastors are not doing well on this, even Muslim are being killed far away of Africa, Muslim brothers still protesting about it in Africa. Muslim are more united all over the world."
- @AfroRedDevil reacted, "He's actually saying what a lot of people think but are too afraid of 'touch not my anointed' to say out loud."
Context of Portable's Previous Endorsement
This criticism comes shortly after Portable publicly endorsed President Bola Tinubu for the 2027 presidential election in a separate viral video shared on March 22, 2026. In that video, the singer warned Yoruba people against refusing to support the president and promised to distribute food items like rice and vegetable oil to his fans, further stirring public discourse.
The Jos attacks have prompted reactions from various Nigerian celebrities, including Obi Cubana and Peter Okoye, who expressed condolences and questioned the authorities' response. Portable's outspoken stance adds to the growing chorus of voices demanding accountability and action from both religious and political leaders in the face of ongoing security challenges.
