Controversial Nigerian cleric, Pastor Tobi Adegboyega, has ignited online debates after describing Christianity as a “social construct” imposed on Africans during colonial times.
In a viral video, Adegboyega argued that Christianity was presented by colonialists as a superior religion to control and subdue African populations.
“The white man came to Africa and told us he was sending a bigger religion,” he said, alleging that biblical teachings on obedience and masters were manipulated to justify oppression.
The pastor also linked the transatlantic slave trade to the use of Christianity as a tool for subjugation.
Criticism of church practices and cultural norms
Adegboyega further criticised rigid religious systems, highlighting rules about marriage and social conduct he claims were added over time, not directly prescribed in the Bible.
He called on African youth to prioritise spirituality over religion, encouraging self-awareness, questioning, and intelligence as paths to empowerment rather than blind obedience.
Calls for a “liberated generation”
The pastor urged churches to focus on transparency and educating congregants, rather than restricting access to leadership or church resources.
His remarks have divided online audiences, with some defending Christianity’s empowering aspects and others questioning the motivations of religious institutions.
Adegboyega also reflected on his personal journey, confessing past involvement in a confraternity and vices before relocating to the UK, where he now dedicates himself fully to spiritual leadership.
Watch the video below…
“When the white man came to Africa to introduce his religion and colonize us, he insert ‘slaves obey your masters,’ in his bible to trick us into submission. Christianity is a social construct; it tells us how to marry even though there’s no how to marry in the bible.”
— Pastor… pic.twitter.com/HhnqsbrVMb
— 𝐀𝐬𝐚𝐤𝐲𝐆𝐑𝐍 (@AsakyGRN) March 1, 2026
