Nigerian singer Spyro has publicly criticised religious institutions and leaders for what he described as their silence in the face of worsening insecurity and national hardship, sparking debate across social media and public discourse.
In a video shared online, the artist questioned why many churches and mosques continue their regular sermons while violence, fear and economic strain persist across the country. He argued that religious leaders should address the crisis more directly and advocate for citizens facing growing uncertainty.
Spyro specifically called out several prominent Christian figures, including Enoch Adeboye, David Oyedepo, William Kumuyi and Jerry Eze, asking why they have not taken a more vocal stance on the country’s situation. He also extended his criticism to influential Muslim leaders and scholars, questioning what he described as their lack of visible response.
“Why am I going to church where another message aside from what’s happening in the country is being preached?” Spyro said in the video. “Any church or mosque speaking about anything different from what is happening in this country, you’re wrong.”
The singer expressed frustration over what he sees as a disconnect between religious messaging and the realities faced by ordinary Nigerians. He suggested that the scale of insecurity and hardship warrants urgent national attention, even raising concerns about whether the country is approaching a breaking point.
“It took me a while to make this video because I was waiting for a response from religious leaders,” he said, adding that now is “not the time to sit around holding crusades and services.”
Nigeria has faced ongoing security challenges in recent years, including banditry, kidnappings, and communal violence in several regions. These issues, combined with economic pressures, have heightened public anxiety and prompted calls for stronger leadership and coordinated responses from both government and civil society.
While some religious leaders have addressed national issues in sermons and public statements, critics like Spyro argue that such efforts have not been sufficiently direct or sustained. Others, however, caution that religious institutions often engage in behind-the-scenes advocacy or prefer to maintain a focus on spiritual guidance.
As the video continues to circulate online, reactions remain mixed. Some Nigerians have echoed Spyro’s concerns, urging faith leaders to speak more boldly, while others defend the role of religious institutions as spaces for hope and stability during uncertain times.
The comments add to a broader conversation about leadership, accountability and the role of influential voices in times of national crisis, an issue that is likely to remain in focus as the country navigates ongoing challenges.