Evangelist Mike Bamiloye recently sparked heated debate among Nigerians with a message he shared on X (formerly Twitter). In his post, Bamiloye warned against criticizing men of God, suggesting that doing so could lead to unintended consequences or curses. Referencing the biblical story of Michal, King David’s wife, who despised him for dancing before the Lord and consequently remained childless, he argued that disrespecting or insulting genuine men of God is a “dangerous venture.”

Bamiloye wrote:
“Some People have carried some Unnecessary Curses they ought not to have carried in the first place. WHY? Because they had insulted some genuine MEN OF GOD who Carry some Fires that is meant for the Devil… Because some Men of God had disappointed you does not imply every Man of God you see should now be Despised and Insulted. It is a Very Dangerous Venture.”

The message, which included a stern warning to “fear for your future,” was perceived by many as a veiled threat aimed at silencing criticism of religious leaders. Critics flooded the comments, accusing Bamiloye of promoting fear to shield pastors and preachers from accountability.

Many argued that his position fosters a culture of impunity among spiritual leaders, discouraging scrutiny and enabling potential abuse of power. Some pointed out the risk of equating criticism with disrespect, warning that it could stifle meaningful conversations about leadership, integrity, and accountability in religious spaces.

Supporters, however, defended Bamiloye’s stance, asserting that respect for spiritual leaders is important and that criticism often crosses into outright insult or condemnation.

The debate highlights growing tensions in Nigeria over the role and conduct of religious leaders, as well as the balance between respect for faith and the need for accountability.