Why Pastors Should Not Be Forced Into Activism — Juliana Olayode

Nigerian actress Juliana Olayode has joined the conversation on Nigeria’s security challenges, saying pastors should not be expected to take on the role of activists.

In an Instagram post, Juliana Olayode said pastors are not activists and are not expected to speak on every trending issue.

She added that clergy should only address such matters when they feel led by God to do so.

She wrote:

“I know I might get
dragged for saying this, and not to deviate from the issue at hand, but I don’t know if it’s just my TikTok and Instagram algorithm, I’ve been seeing a lot of videos of people calling out pastors. There’s
something I think we should also take into consideration.”

“There is so much fear, agitation, and uncertainty across the nation right now.
What makes it even more troubling is the silence from those entrusted with leadership. The way that we all feel is a natural response to the things happening around us. We need to know that our concerns are being heard and that steps are being taken to address the situation.”

“Yes, I believe pastors should speak up more. So should imams, sheikhs, and everyone with a voice and influence. But we should not
automatically assume that those who are not speaking publicly on social media are doing nothing or are unconcerned about what is happening in the country. Not all meaningful action is visible online.”

“Pastors are not activists, though they certainly can speak on political and societal issues when they feel led to do so.
I understand that some people have no regard for pastors. We have seen and heard painful stories of what some have done in the name of God. But while false pastors exist, so do genuine ones, men and women who serve faithfully, walk in integrity, and carry their spiritual responsibility with sincerity.”

“Yes, pastors are human beings like the rest of us, but they are under divine authority and also carry a spiritual responsibility before God.
Throughout Scripture, God’s servants did not always respond to national crises with public statements.
Sometimes their
assignment was to pray, intercede, offer counsel, and personally engage those in authority as God directed.”

“So while there are moments when pastors should speak publicly, we should be careful not to assume that a pastor’s silence on social media means they are silent before God or inactive on behalf of the nation. Not every God-given
assignment is meant to be carried out in public.”

“I know some people may not like hearing this, but as we continue to speak up, demand accountability, and play our civic roles, including getting our PVCs and voting, we must also continue to pray and ask God for mercy. May the Lord be merciful to us, and heal our land,” she concluded.

While her comments have stirred mixed reactions, some critics say otherwise, voicing their displeasure towards the actress.

@adora—— said, “Juliana abeg. This is not the time to be defending anyone. They are very much influential, let them Come out and speak too.”

@tobitreasuremusic said, “Nice write up, but the question is if one of Pastor’s children is among those children, are they going to keep mute like this?”