Tag: Religion

  • Former Adult Film Star Jazmine Cashmere Leaves Porn Industry, Becomes Christian Pastor

    Former adult film actress Jazmine Cashmere has sparked widespread reactions online after videos showing her preaching as a Christian pastor resurfaced on social media.

    The former entertainer, now known by her birth name, Nicole B. Jones, reportedly left the adult entertainment industry several years ago and now leads a Christian congregation in Chicago, United States.

    From adult films to the pulpit

    Cashmere was a prominent figure in the adult film industry between 2004 and 2010, appearing in more than 100 productions before walking away from the profession.

    Since then, she has embraced Christianity and devoted her life to ministry.

    According to reports, Jones now serves as a pastor, regularly preaching and sharing biblical teachings with her congregation while also using her social media platforms to encourage followers with messages of faith and hope.

    Video of transformation goes viral

    Fresh attention followed the circulation of a split-screen video on X comparing two different stages of her life.

    One side of the clip showed Cashmere during her years in the adult entertainment industry, while the other featured her dressed in clerical attire, preaching passionately behind a church pulpit.

    The striking contrast quickly attracted widespread attention, with many social media users describing her journey as a powerful example of redemption and personal transformation.

    Mixed reactions online

    The viral video has generated diverse reactions across social media.

    While many users applauded her decision to leave her former career and embrace Christianity, others expressed surprise at the dramatic change.

    The renewed interest has also reignited conversations about faith, second chances and personal transformation, with many describing her story as evidence that people can choose a completely different path regardless of their past.

     

  • “Don’t Chew Gum In Church, You’re Not A Goat” – Pastor David Obiyeome Sparks Reactions Over Strict Church Rules

    Founder of Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Obiyeome, has sparked reactions online after issuing strict instructions on how church members should conduct themselves during worship services.

    A viral video circulating on X showed the clergyman cautioning worshippers against chewing gum, drinking water, or using mobile phones inside the church auditorium.

    Pastor warns members against casual behaviour in church

    Speaking during a church service, Pastor Obiyeome insisted that worshippers must show reverence while inside the church environment.

    “Don’t chew gum when you’re in church, you’re not a goat. Don’t drink water in church. If you want to drink water, go outside. Don’t use phone at all in church,” he said.

    The pastor further stated that the church should not be treated casually, adding that some behaviours displayed during services were inappropriate.

    “This is not a Pentecostal church, only Pentecostal churches allow water inside church,” he added.

    Video triggers mixed reactions online

    The comments have since generated debate across social media platforms, with many Nigerians sharing different opinions on the pastor’s remarks.

    While some users agreed with his message about discipline and respect during worship, others argued that some of the restrictions appeared too harsh for modern church settings.

    One user wrote, “He made his point, but the delivery wasn’t right.”

    Another commented, “Some of these rules are too extreme for modern church settings.”

    Others defended the pastor, insisting that churches should maintain order and seriousness during services.

  • Katsina Govt Approves ₦3.8bn Loan to Secure 3,890 Hajj Slots for Pilgrims

    The Katsina State Government has approved a ₦3.8 billion loan facility to secure 3,890 Hajj slots for intending pilgrims from the state ahead of the 2026 pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.

    Governor Dikko Radda disclosed this during the official farewell ceremony for Katsina pilgrims departing for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

    Radda Explains Reason for Loan Approval

    According to the governor, the intervention became necessary after the state encountered financial difficulties in meeting its allocated Hajj slots through the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

    The Katsina State governor stated that the loan approval would ensure that all allocated pilgrims from the state participate fully in the 2026 Hajj exercise.

    The Katsina Hajj loan approval has already attracted attention in latest Nigerian news as discussions continue around government spending and pilgrimage welfare.

    Pilgrims to Receive $500 Allowance

    Governor Dikko Radda also announced several welfare packages for intending pilgrims from the state.

    According to him, each pilgrim will receive a $500 allowance to assist with basic needs during their stay in Saudi Arabia.

    He further disclosed that the Katsina State Government would sponsor Hadaya for all pilgrims as part of measures to improve their welfare throughout the Hajj exercise.

    “Each pilgrim will receive a $500 allowance to cover basic needs in Saudi Arabia,” Radda stated.

    200 Officials Deployed for Hajj Operations

    The governor also revealed that 200 officials had been deployed to provide medical support, spiritual guidance, and logistical assistance during the pilgrimage.

    “All officials have been carefully selected and equipped to support pilgrims throughout the pilgrimage,” he said.

    Radda added that his administration had strengthened the operations of the Katsina State Pilgrims Welfare Board to improve efficiency and reduce challenges experienced in previous exercises.

    The latest Katsina Hajj update has continued trending in breaking news Nigeria today as preparations intensify for the 2026 pilgrimage.

    Governor Urges Discipline Among Pilgrims

    Governor Radda urged intending pilgrims to pray for peace, unity, and improved security in Katsina State and Nigeria while in the Holy Land.

    He also advised pilgrims to conduct themselves responsibly and avoid spreading misinformation during the pilgrimage exercise.

    “Many people sold personal belongings to perform Hajj. You are expected to show the highest level of discipline, patience, and mutual respect,” the governor said.

    Radda further stated that his administration had improved accommodation and feeding arrangements for Katsina pilgrims in Saudi Arabia after personally inspecting facilities during previous Hajj operations.

  • Femi Lazarus Announces Temporary Relocation to Kenya, Cites ‘Divine Instruction’

    The founder of Light Nation Church, Femi Lazarus, has announced plans to temporarily relocate to Kenya, describing the decision as guided by what he called divine instruction.

    The cleric made the disclosure during a church service in Kenya, where the announcement was met with applause from members.

    Cleric announces move in Kenya

    In a video circulating online, Lazarus said the relocation marks a new phase in his ministry.

    “That is the instruction God gave to us… it is a very significant morning for us in this new phase of our assignment,” he said.

    He added that he believes every nation carries the grace required for its development, noting that his presence in Kenya aligns with that belief.

    Mixed reactions trail announcement

    The announcement has generated reactions on social media, with opinions divided over the reason for the move.

    Some users expressed support, noting that religious leaders often act based on spiritual convictions.

    Others, however, questioned the motivation behind the relocation, suggesting possible non-spiritual factors.

    Part of broader ministry expansion

    The development comes amid growing cross-border expansion among Nigerian churches, with several ministries establishing branches across Africa and beyond.

    Observers say such movements often reflect efforts to reach new audiences and strengthen international presence.

  • Ibiyeomie Links 50 Cent’s Failed Port Harcourt Show to Crusade, Sparks Online Debate

    Founder of Salvation Ministries, David Ibiyeomie, has recounted an incident involving American rapper 50 Cent and a planned concert in Port Harcourt, saying the event’s collapse coincided with a church crusade scheduled for the same day. The account, shared in a viral video, has drawn mixed reactions online.

    The cleric narrated the experience while addressing his congregation, with clips from the sermon now circulating widely on social media.

    Cleric Recalls Clash Between Concert and Crusade

    According to Ibiyeomie, the rapper was billed to perform in Port Harcourt at the peak of his career on the same day his church had planned a crusade. He said the situation raised concerns about attendance among members.

    He stated that he warned that if the concert held and believers attended, he would not proceed with the programme.

    “If He Comes, Then God Did Not Call Me”

    The pastor said he made a strong declaration at the time, linking the outcome of the concert to his calling. He suggested that the event would serve as a test of his ministry.

    “I said if 50 Cent comes to perform, then God did not call me,” he said.

    Concert Fails to Hold as Planned

    Ibiyeomie claimed that the rapper encountered issues before reaching Port Harcourt and was unable to proceed with the performance. According to him, 50 Cent reportedly turned back after arriving in Lagos.

    He added that individuals who had purchased tickets for the concert eventually attended the church programme instead.

    Mixed Reactions Trail Viral Video

    The story has sparked varied reactions online, with users debating whether the development was coincidental or reflective of faith-based beliefs. Some expressed agreement with the pastor’s interpretation, while others questioned the narrative.

    Clips of the sermon continue to circulate across platforms, fueling ongoing discussions.

  • “Pay Tithe or Stay Broke” — Ibiyeomie Doubles Down on Prosperity Teaching

    Popular cleric, David Ibiyeomie, has stirred fresh debate after insisting that tithing remains a core requirement for anyone seeking financial prosperity.

    His position on tithing

    Speaking during a recent sermon, the founder emphasised that covenant wealth is rooted in spiritual principles, with tithe forming the foundation.

    According to him, anyone who ignores tithing cannot claim to be operating within divine principles of wealth.

    “You can’t say you are walking in covenant if the foundation is not in place. The foundation for the covenant is tithe,” he said.

    He compared neglecting tithe to building a house without a solid base.

    Biblical backing

    Referencing Malachi 3:10, the cleric urged believers to remain consistent in their giving, stressing that obedience brings stability.

    “You have to pay correct tithe if you don’t want your life to be tight,” he added.

    Reveals personal giving

    Ibiyeomie also disclosed details of his personal financial commitments, describing them as “quality offerings.”

    “The minimum offerings I give on Sundays is $12,000 and the minimum I give on weekdays is $2,000. If you don’t give me offering I’ll still be stinkingly rich,” he said.

    He argued that generosity is directly tied to prosperity, while stinginess leads to poverty.

    “Stinginess is the gateway to poverty and giving is the gateway to prosperity. Every poor man is stingy,” he stated.

    Mixed reactions trail comments

    His remarks have since triggered mixed reactions online. While some supporters agree with his teachings on giving, critics have questioned the strong link between financial contributions and wealth.

  • “Christianity in Nigeria Has No Fathers” — Rev. Omolehin Questions Church Leadership

    Rev. Isaac Omolehin has sparked fresh debate after declaring that Christianity in Nigeria lacks a unifying spiritual father, arguing that most leaders are tied to denominations rather than serving the broader Christian community.

    What he said

    Speaking in a viral clip, Omolehin said prominent clerics in the country operate largely within their own church structures, rather than as overarching spiritual figures.

    He referenced Pastor Enoch Adeboye and Bishop David Oyedepo, describing them as influential but limited to denominational leadership.

    “Christianity in Nigeria has no fathers… are these the fathers of Christianity in Nigeria? These are denominational leaders,” he said.

    Criticism of church culture

    Omolehin also criticised what he described as growing competition among church leaders, particularly around infrastructure and wealth.

    According to him, the focus on building massive auditoriums and acquiring material assets has shifted attention away from core spiritual responsibilities.

    “A father would be someone who looks after us all… not competing over who is building a one-mile auditorium while another tries to build two miles,” he added.

    Debate it has triggered

    His comments have since generated mixed reactions online, with some agreeing that the church needs more unified leadership, while others defended the role of established pastors.

    The remarks come amid ongoing conversations about the direction, influence, and accountability of religious leadership in Nigeria.

  • Catholic Priest Blasts Imam Over ₦2m Bounty on Pastor, Cites Deborah’s Killing

    A Catholic priest, Father Kelvin Ugwu, has reacted angrily after an Islamic cleric allegedly placed a ₦2 million bounty on a pastor accused of insulting Prophet Mohammed.

    Threat that sparked outrage

    The controversy followed viral videos in which the Imam was heard initially offering ₦1 million to anyone willing to behead the pastor, before later increasing the amount to ₦2 million.

    “I swear to God, I promise ₦1 million to whoever beheads this man. If the money is too small, go ahead, I will increase it,” the cleric said in the video.

    He reportedly doubled the bounty afterward and was said to have boasted about remaining free despite the threat.

    Priest reacts

    Reacting, Father Kelvin Ugwu condemned the development and questioned why such threats could be made publicly without immediate consequences.

    He linked the situation to the 2022 killing of Deborah Samuel, a student who was lynched by her classmates in Sokoto over alleged blasphemy.

    “It was Muslim students that killed Ms Deborah… they stoned her to death and burnt her body,” he said.

    Reference to Deborah case

    The priest recalled that suspects arrested in connection with Deborah’s killing were defended by dozens of lawyers in court, raising concerns about accountability.

    “At least 34 lawyers appeared in court to defend the suspects… the case has been forgotten and those arrested are walking free,” he added.

    Rising concerns

    He further criticised what he described as a pattern where threats linked to blasphemy go unchecked, pointing to the Imam’s alleged comments and continued freedom.

    “And now an Imam publicly places a bounty on a pastor and is still walking free… make this make sense,” he said.

    The incident has sparked debate online, with many Nigerians expressing concern over rising tensions and calls for stronger enforcement of laws against incitement and threats to life.

     

  • Pastor Olumide Emmanuel Fires Back Over Church School Fees Criticism

    Popular cleric, Olumide Emmanuel, has responded to criticism over churches using offerings to establish schools that many members allegedly cannot afford, insisting such arguments ignore the realities of running large institutions.

    Speaking in a recent statement, the pastor defended religious organisations, arguing that several churches have built infrastructure that governments have failed to provide over the years.

    What he said

    Emmanuel dismissed the criticism in strong terms, stating that church-led developments often outperform public sector efforts.

    “Many of these pastors and churches that you are speaking against, what they are doing, your presidents and your governors have never done it,” he said.

    He referenced church-owned communities such as Redemption Camp and Canaanland, noting that they enjoy stable electricity and better infrastructure compared to many parts of the country.

    Why church schools charge high fees

    The cleric explained that once church funds are used to establish a school, the institution becomes financially independent and must sustain itself like a business.

    “When we carry church money to start a school, once we release that money into the school, the school becomes an entity,” he said.

    According to him, such schools must generate revenue to pay staff salaries and maintain operations, rather than relying continuously on church offerings.

    Ongoing debate

    The comments come amid growing public debate on the accessibility of church-owned universities, a conversation recently reignited by Omoyele Sowore, who criticised the high cost of tuition in some institutions.

    Emmanuel maintained that without financial sustainability, such schools would struggle to survive, insisting that the model is necessary for long-term operations.

  • Pastor Bags Life Jail for Raping Church Member’s Daughter

    A 63-year-old cleric, Chris Douglas, has been sentenced to life imprisonment by the Lagos State Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja for raping a church member’s daughter.

    What happened

    Delivering judgment on Thursday, Justice Rahman Oshodi held that Douglas, the General Overseer of Peculiar Generation Assembly Church, Oshodi, grossly abused his position of spiritual authority and trust to exploit the victim.

    “The convict occupied a position of spiritual authority and was regarded as a father figure by the victim and her family,” the judge said.

    Instead of protecting that trust, the judge added, Douglas “betrayed it in the most reprehensible manner.”

    The court heard that the abuse took place in a hotel on several occasions while the victim and her family looked up to the cleric for spiritual guidance.

    Victim’s trauma

    Justice Oshodi noted that the victim suffered severe psychological trauma as a direct result of the abuse.

    “The court accepts the evidence that the victim suffered depression and recurring suicidal thoughts as a direct consequence of the convict’s actions,” he said.

    Prosecution’s case

    The prosecution, led by Director of Public Prosecution Dr Babajide Martins, called five witnesses, including the victim, her mother, and a medical doctor.

    The victim testified that Douglas drugged and raped her in September 2017.

    “I trusted him like a spiritual father. I never imagined he could do this to me,” she told the court.

    Her mother recounted confronting the cleric at his church, where he allegedly cried and blamed the devil before begging for forgiveness in the presence of church elders.

    The matter was later reported to a human rights organisation, the police at Makinde Division, and the Mirabel Centre for medical examination.

    Defence and court ruling

    Douglas denied the allegations, claiming the relationship was consensual.

    However, Justice Oshodi rejected the consent defence, ruling that the prosecution proved rape beyond reasonable doubt.

    “The defence of consent is not supported by the totality of the evidence before the court,” the judge held.

    The court discharged Douglas on six counts of defilement and sexual assault but found him guilty on three counts of rape.

    Sentence

    Justice Oshodi sentenced the convict to life imprisonment on each of the three counts, with the sentences to run concurrently.

    “The law must protect the vulnerable, and this court will not hesitate to punish abuse of trust in the strongest terms,” the judge said.

    The court also ordered that Douglas’ name be entered into the Lagos State Sexual Offenders Register.

    This is a clear case of betrayal of trust by someone who was supposed to provide spiritual leadership. The judgment has sparked discussions on the need for stricter oversight in religious institutions.