Alexandra Asogwa, a former Big Brother Naija housemate, has ignited a firestorm of reactions across social media with her scathing remarks on religious fanaticism in Nigeria. The reality TV star, who gained fame as the third runner-up in the 2018 BBNaija season, shared a post on Instagram that was later reposted on X on June 5, 2025, at 11:38 UTC. The post, which has since gone viral with thousands of likes, retweets, and comments, critiques the blind loyalty some Nigerians exhibit toward religious leaders, particularly within the Christian community.
In her Instagram story, she wrote: “Once I hear you say ‘The God of my pastor,’ I know you are a lost cause and we can’t reason the same. Those ones that go extra miles to make their pastor their wallpaper. The day I’m ready for conversations about religion, I know a lot of people will fight me but again, I know my mouth. I’ll say my own and hell can be let loose for all I care. A lot of people are brainwashed. Anyway, have a good day my people.” Accompanying the text was a striking image of her in a stylish black-and-white pinstripe suit, exuding confidence and defiance.
Nigeria, with an estimated population of 230–237 million as of 2025, is one of the most religious countries in the world. 54.2% of Nigerians identify as Christian, while 44.3% are Muslim, with the remaining adhering to traditional or other beliefs. Christianity, particularly in the southern and central regions, has a profound influence on the country’s cultural, social, and political landscape. The rise of Pentecostal mega-churches has further solidified the role of pastors as influential figures in Nigerian society.
Her critique specifically targets the phrase “The God of my pastor,” a common expression among some Nigerian Christians that reflects a deep reverence for their spiritual leaders. For many, pastors are seen as intermediaries between God and their congregants, often revered to the point of near-idolization. Practices like setting a pastor’s image as a phone wallpaper, as she pointed out, are not uncommon among devout followers who believe in the spiritual power and protection their leaders provide.
However, her statement challenges this cultural norm, suggesting that such devotion borders on brainwashing and undermines personal faith. Her words resonate with a growing sentiment among some Nigerians, particularly younger generations, who are questioning the unchecked influence of religious leaders in a country where religion often intersects with politics, education, and even healthcare.
Christianity in Nigeria dates back to the 15th century, introduced by Portuguese traders and Catholic missionaries in the coastal kingdoms of Benin and Warri. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that the religion gained significant traction, particularly in the south, through the efforts of Protestant and Pentecostal missionaries. Today, Nigeria is home to one of the largest Christian populations in Africa, with estimates ranging between 80–100 million Christians.
The influence of Christianity extends beyond the spiritual realm, shaping community life, education, and healthcare. Yet, the religion’s dynamic growth has also sparked theological debates and tensions, particularly with Islam and traditional African religions. Practices such as “Christian deliverance sessions,” which often blend indigenous beliefs in witchcraft and spiritual curses with Pentecostal rituals, are common in Nigeria, reflecting the syncretic nature of religious practice in the country.
It is within this context that her comments have struck a chord. Her critique highlights a tension between institutional religion and individual spirituality, a divide that has become increasingly pronounced as Nigeria grapples with the challenges of modernity, urbanization, and globalization.
The repost of her statement on X quickly gained traction, amassing thousands of interactions within hours. The reactions were sharply divided, reflecting the polarized views on religion in Nigeria.
Some users applauded her for her boldness, with comments like, “She’s speaking facts! Too many people worship their pastors instead of God. It’s a real problem in this country.” Another user wrote, “I’ve always said this! People are so brainwashed they can’t even think for themselves. Thank you for saying what needs to be said.”
Others, however, found her remarks offensive and disrespectful to the deeply held beliefs of millions of Nigerians. One user replied, “This is too harsh. Pastors are spiritual fathers, and there’s nothing wrong with honoring them. She needs to be careful with her words.” Another argued, “Not everyone who says ‘The God of my pastor’ is brainwashed. It’s a way of showing respect and faith. She’s just trying to stir controversy.”
The debate also drew the attention of religious leaders and influencers. A prominent Nigerian pastor, who chose to remain anonymous, told a local news outlet, “While I understand the need for discernment, we must be careful not to demonize the faith of others. Pastors are shepherds, and their role is to guide their flock to God, not to replace Him.”
Her comments come at a time when Nigeria’s religious landscape is undergoing significant shifts. Nigeria’s Muslim population is expected to grow to 55% by 2050, driven by higher fertility rates, while Christians will remain a significant minority at around 43%. Traditional beliefs, though declining, continue to influence cultural practices, often blending with Christianity and Islam in festivals and rites.
This evolving religious dynamic has led to increased scrutiny of the role of religious leaders in Nigerian society. In recent years, there have been numerous scandals involving pastors accused of financial misconduct, sexual abuse, and exploitation of their congregants. These incidents have fueled skepticism among some Nigerians, particularly the youth, who are increasingly vocal about the need for accountability within religious institutions.
Her post also taps into a broader societal divide between tradition and modernity. As Nigeria becomes more urbanized and globalized, younger generations are questioning long-standing cultural practices, including the unquestioning loyalty to religious leaders. Social media platforms like X have become battlegrounds for these debates, amplifying voices that challenge the status quo.
This is not the first time she has found herself at the center of controversy. Since her appearance on BBNaija in 2018, where she finished as the third runner-up, she has been a polarizing figure. Known for her outspoken nature and unapologetic personality, she has often used her platform to address social issues, from body positivity to mental health.
Her time on BBNaija was marked by a close but undefined relationship with a fellow housemate, which kept viewers hooked and contributed to her popularity. Post-BBNaija, she has dabbled in acting and built a significant following on social media, where she continues to engage her audience with her views on various topics.
Her latest comments on religion, however, may be her most controversial yet. While some see her as a voice of reason in a society grappling with the excesses of religious fanaticism, others view her as an opportunist seeking attention by attacking sacred institutions.
Her critique raises important questions about the role of religion in Nigerian society. In a country where faith is deeply intertwined with identity, how does one balance personal spirituality with institutional loyalty? And at what point does reverence for religious leaders cross into the territory of blind devotion?
As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: she has struck a nerve, forcing Nigerians to confront uncomfortable truths about their relationship with religion. Whether her words will lead to meaningful dialogue or simply fuel more division remains to be seen. For now, the reality TV star has once again proven her ability to spark conversation and challenge norms, cementing her place as one of Nigeria’s most influential and controversial figures.
As she signed off in her post, “Have a good day my people,” she may have anticipated the storm her words would unleash. But for a woman who has never shied away from speaking her mind, it’s all in a day’s work.
Note these reports are all allegedly, as seen on the internet.
Written By Crystal Star
Subscribe to Follow Global Trends for daily global news.
Find Out How To Make Money As A Full-Time Writer/Blogger Guide.
To Advertise or Publish A Press Release, send a mail to info.followglobaltrends@gmail.com
