Nigerian singer Spyro has triggered one of the most talked-about conversations on social media after publicly questioning the silence of some of Nigeria’s most influential religious leaders amid worsening insecurity and hardship in the country.
In an emotional video shared online just hours before Children’s Day, the singer criticised churches, mosques and prominent clerics for continuing regular religious activities while many Nigerians battle fear, kidnappings, killings and economic struggles. His comments quickly sparked mixed reactions online, with some praising him for speaking boldly while others argued that religious leaders should not be blamed for the nation’s problems.
By mentioning respected names like Enoch Adeboye, David Oyedepo, Jerry Eze and other Christian and Muslim clerics, Spyro’s message evolved from a celebrity rant into a wider national debate about influence, responsibility and silence during moments of crisis.
The Backstory Behind Spyro’s Frustration
One of the incidents that intensified public fear was the recent wave of kidnappings in Oyo State, where gunmen reportedly attacked schools and communities around the Oriire and Ogbomoso axis. Reports claimed that several pupils, teachers and residents were abducted during the attacks, forcing authorities to launch rescue operations and tighten security in affected areas.
The incident sparked fresh panic among parents and residents, especially as school kidnappings, once mostly associated with Northern Nigeria now appeared to be spreading into South-West communities.
Beyond Oyo State, reports of abductions and deadly attacks continued to emerge from different regions of the country, further worsening national anxiety. Social media also became flooded with emotional reactions and public outrage as many Nigerians questioned whether enough was being done to address the crisis.
It was against this backdrop that Spyro decided to publicly express his frustration, directing his anger not only at the government but also at influential religious institutions and leaders whose voices often shape public conversations in Nigeria.
What Spyro Said & Those He Named
Spyro, whose real name is Oludipe Oluwasanmi David, is known for hit songs like Who Is Your Guy? and Billing. In the now-viral video shared on Tuesday, May 26, the singer questioned why many churches and mosques were continuing with normal sermons while Nigerians faced fear, violence and economic hardship.
“It took me a while to make this video because I was waiting for the response of church and religious leaders,” he said.
According to Spyro, religious gatherings should focus more on the country’s present realities while also speaking up for ordinary citizens.
“Why am I going to church where another message asides what’s happening in the country is being preached,” he said.
“Any church that is preaching any message different from what is happening in this country and not speaking for the people and speaking to the government, you’re wrong.
“Any mosque speaking about anything different from what is happening in this country, you’re wrong.”
The singer also questioned why schools were still operating normally despite rising fears caused by kidnappings and violent attacks.
“Schools are even still opening up, why? This calls for a state of emergency. What is our limit? When are we going to say enough is enough?”
As his frustration intensified, Spyro began mentioning some of Nigeria’s most influential Christian clerics by name, including Enoch Adeboye, David Oyedepo, William Kumuyi and Jerry Eze.
“Where is Pastor Adeboye in all of this? Where is David Oyedepo? Where is Pastor Kumuyi, Pastor Bolaji, Jerry Eze in all of this? Where are the notable men of God that have so much influence?”
Spyro also directed similar questions toward Muslim clerics and scholars.
“And for the Muslims, where are your sheikhs? What are they saying? Where are the alfas?”
The video immediately sparked debates online, with many Nigerians divided over whether religious leaders should become more vocal during national crises or remain focused on spiritual guidance and prayer.
Conclusion
Spyro’s emotional outburst has now grown beyond a celebrity social media moment into a wider national conversation about influence, responsibility and silence during difficult times.
By directly naming some of Nigeria’s most respected religious figures, the singer forced many Nigerians to confront a difficult question: should influential clerics remain spiritually focused during national crises, or should they also publicly challenge the government and speak more boldly for the people?
