A coalition of Christian youths reportedly affiliated with several high-profile prosperity gospel ministries has announced plans to stage a public protest against activist and politician Omoyele Sowore. The group accuses Sowore of obstructing their efforts to use the Nigerian police to arrest and detain TikTok users who have been critical of their religious leaders online.
In a statement released on Sunday, the coalition, identifying themselves as Believers for Justice and Honor, claim that Sowore's public stance and legal intervention have emboldened online critics, whom they label as “digital blasphemers.” The youth group alleges that these critics are “disrupting the faith and peace of the church” through “irreverent and slanderous content” posted on social media platforms.
Sowore, known for his pro-democracy activism and support for free speech, had recently condemned the use of law enforcement to silence dissent, particularly when it involves religious or political criticism online. His advocacy has included providing legal aid to some of the targeted TikTok users, drawing ire from church-affiliated youth groups who see his actions as “aiding spiritual rebellion.”