Pastor Jerry Eze, founder of Streams of Joy Church and convener of the NSPPD prayer platform, is at the center of controversy following a testimony by Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo during a church service. In a viral video, Okpebholo thanked God for his recent victory in the Edo State governorship election, claiming it resulted from divine intervention.
The session moderator supported Okpebholo’s assertion by stating that God often uses “foolish things” to showcase His power. This testimony, however, led to mixed reactions online, with many Nigerians expressing outrage. Critics accused Pastor Eze of compromising the sanctity of the pulpit and using the church platform for political gain, arguing that celebrating a political victory detracted from the service’s spiritual focus.
On the other hand, some defended the governor’s remarks as a genuine expression of faith, while questioning the appropriateness of discussing political achievements in a church setting. Ose Anenih, the son of former Minister of Works Tony Anenih, has criticized Pastor Jerry Eze for celebrating what he perceives as moral decay in society. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Anenih stated, “God will not be mocked, #RealJerryEze. There was a time when mighty men of God would speak truth to power. Today, pastors use their platforms to celebrate society’s perversions. Is a rigged election your evidence of God’s divinity?”
An anonymous user, tweeting as #buhilz56, also questioned the appropriateness of the governor’s testimony during the service, asserting, “This should not happen on your pulpit, especially given the circumstances of the Edo State election.” Adewale, known as #Wale_A3, expressed frustration with certain pastors, saying he now limits his listening to those he deems genuine, as many others seem more focused on personal gain.
Additionally, Chuks E, tweeting as #messersEze, lamented the congregation’s enthusiastic reaction to the testimony, suggesting that their celebration reflects a troubling state of affairs for the community.
Akongwale Patrick, tweeting as #unimagbebia, expressed concerns about the commercialization of Christianity in Nigeria, noting that unlike Islam, which does not allow individuals to wash away their sins and claim false victories, Christianity appears overly focused on money.In defense of Pastor Jerry Eze, a user known as #goodthangs_ argued that the pastor cannot control who chooses to testify, stating, “Pastor Jerry did not invite the governor to come forward; he did so on his own. What can Pastor Jerry do?”
Another user, #TherimT56364, suggested that if God wanted the governor out of office, no amount of election rigging would keep him there, encouraging readers to carefully consider biblical principles. An anonymous user, #SmartSyn, defended Pastor Jerry’s decision to allow the testimony despite the challenges of a “lawless” Nigeria, asserting that God ultimately holds judgment. Meanwhile, #coly_emeks questioned whether the pastor should ban politicians from church, emphasizing that a church should serve all, not just certain individuals.
Finally, #FYNEGUY2010 pointed out that claims of a rigged election are subjective, particularly since those involved might have biases affecting their views.