A Lagos-based pastor, Bolaji Idowu, has triggered widespread backlash after stating during a sermon that fear is the core issue holding back the Yoruba people. The controversial remarks, which have since gone viral, ignited heated discussions across social media, especially on X (formerly Twitter).
Speaking during a message at Harvesters International Christian Centre, Pastor Idowu claimed that fear has become a limiting trait within the Yoruba ethnic group.
“There is a problem with the Yoruba race… and it is called fear. Life bows for the courageous. Life works against the fearful,” he declared.
He further contrasted the Yoruba with the Igbo ethnic group, whom he praised for their bravery and global reach:
“That’s why I love the Igbos. They are fearless. There is no country in this world where you won’t find an Igbo man,” he added.
The pastor urged his congregation—particularly young people—to reject fear and embrace courage, emphasizing that fear leads to self-doubt and missed opportunities.
“Nobody can do anything significant in life because of fear… When you’re young, you can conquer it,” he said with urgency.
“There is a problem with the Yoruba race”-Pastor Bolaji Idowu (Founder Of Harvesters International Christian Centre).
This is shameful. This is disrespectful.
The nigerian pulpit has now been turned into an arena for disgusting intertribal house sports.
pic.twitter.com/f0xEWPtT0B— #OurFavOnlineDoc 🩺 🇬🇧 (@OurFavOnlineDoc) June 29, 2025
Social Media Reactions: Mixed Opinions and Outrage
The clip, originally shared by Pastor Idowu on TikTok, quickly spread to other platforms, with many Nigerians expressing anger over what they called ethnic stereotyping from the pulpit.
Dr. Chinonso Egemba (@OurFavOnlineDoc) condemned the remarks, tweeting:
“This is shameful. This is disrespectful. The Nigerian pulpit has now been turned into an arena for disgusting intertribal house sports.”
Another user, @drpepple_, added:
“Some words shouldn’t come out of the pulpit.”
However, others defended the pastor’s message, saying the full context was about empowering youth to overcome fear. User @ammielv stated:
“He was talking about being fearless and how some Yoruba cultural sayings can limit people… Don’t twist it into hate.”
Still, critics pushed back. @OurFavOnlineDoc emphasized:
“He literally said, ‘There is a problem with the Yoruba race.’ There is NO context where that’s acceptable.”
Calls for Unity Amid Ethnic Tensions
Some users used the moment to call for national unity and reject tribal generalizations. Tobi Adekunle noted:
“There are many Yoruba and Nigerians from all tribes doing amazing things locally and internationally. Fear is a human issue—not a tribal one.”
Another user, @2tolu, added:
“We can all celebrate each other’s growth without unnecessary tribal criticism. One love.”
Others, like @Inno4Chi, criticized the continued tribal framing of national issues:
“Nigeria has over 250 ethnic groups. Limiting discourse to three or four is shallow and divisive.”
No Apology or Clarification Yet from Pastor Idowu
As the backlash grows, Pastor Bolaji Idowu has not issued any public apology or clarification. His comments have reopened discussions about tribal unity, responsible leadership, and the influence of religious platforms in shaping national narratives.
