The Harvesters International Christian Center Church, Lekki Branch, set off a storm of reactions after Pastor Bolaji Idowu extended an invitation to Afrobeats sensation Spyro to perform at their recent Christmas Carol service held on Sunday, December 17, 2023.
The service, which boasted a lineup including celebrities like Daniel Effiong, Bisola Ayeola, Dorathy Bachor, Sharon Ooja, Uzor Arukwe, Adeh Gbolahan, and Kenneth Ophopho alongside Spyro, gained attention and criticism across social media platforms.
Ahead of the Carol service, Pastor Bolaji stirred the controversy further by announcing the event on his Instagram page,
“Can’t wait for this! It is today, and starts in less than an hour”
Expressing his anticipation for the service, which was set to begin shortly.
The decision to feature Spyro in a church service triggered backlash from netizens, condemning what they perceived as the intertwining of secular practices with Christianity. This move fueled heated discussions, with many questioning the appropriateness of involving popular secular artists in religious events.
This incident follows a recent trend in churches where controversial artists, such as street rapper Portable and Fuji singer Pasuma, were also invited to perform at events hosted by the Celestial Church, drawing similar criticism and disapproval from the public.
