Nigerian street-pop singer Habeeb Okikiola, widely known as Portable, has stirred fresh controversy after criticising Christian leaders over what he described as their muted response to recurring violence in Jos and other parts of the country.
His remarks followed reports of renewed attacks in parts of Plateau State around the Easter period, including incidents said to have occurred on Palm Sunday, developments that have once again drawn national attention to the protracted security crisis in Nigeria’s Middle Belt.
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Residents of Angwan Rukuba, the community in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, where many were killed in an attack on Sunday, have described how the gunmen disguised themselves as customers before launching the deadly attack that also left several persons injured.
Responding in a video circulated on his X account, the “Zazu” crooner accused prominent pastors of prioritising personal safety while failing to defend their congregants publicly.
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Speaking in a mix of Yoruba and Nigerian Pidgin, he said it was troubling that clerics “move around with heavy protection” but have not matched that with vocal advocacy when their members are attacked.
He said, “Why are Nigerian pastors not fighting for Christians? They use bulletproof cars, yet their followers are dying. Why can’t pastors lead protests to Aso Rock? You can’t harm a Muslim, and there won’t be chaos.”
Pastor’s Reactions
In the wake of the event, some Nigerian pastors and celebrities took to social media to condemn the recent killings.
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Prominent among them is Pastor Jerry Eze, who condemned the attack, “JOS – JESUS OUR SAVIOUR! The Mercy of EL-ROI has Prevailed!! May the Wickedness of the Wicked perish with them!!!” he wrote.
The President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Daniel Okoh, issued one of the strongest reactions, condemning the killings as “horrific” and unacceptable.
In a statement reported by PREMIUM TIMES, Mr Okoh said, “Nigerians are tired of mourning; Nigerians are tired of statements; Nigerians want to see action.”
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