Fresh controversy has trailed comments made by Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo, founder of Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC), after he referenced legendary Juju musician Sir Shina Peters while preaching on wealth creation and delayed gratification.
The sermon, delivered at the COZA 12DG programme, compared two hypothetical Nigerians in 1990 who each had ₦20 million, contrasting one who allegedly built a house with the funds and another—identified as Zenith Bank founder Jim Ovia—who used his capital to start a bank. Pastor Ashimolowo cited Shina Peters as the example of the musician who invested in property, suggesting that such a decision paled in long-term value when compared to building a financial institution.
According to Ashimolowo, evolving architectural standards had rendered houses built decades ago outdated, while the bank established with similar capital had grown into a multi-trillion-naira institution with branches across Africa. He used the illustration to urge congregants to delay gratification and make long-term financial decisions.
The remarks quickly sparked backlash on social media, with many Nigerians accusing the cleric of unfairly diminishing Shina Peters’ career and legacy. Veteran singer Daddy Showkey was among those who publicly criticised the comparison, describing it as disrespectful.
Reacting to the viral video via his Instagram story on Wednesday, Sir Shina Peters described Ashimolowo’s claims as false and derogatory. While thanking Daddy Showkey for drawing his attention to the sermon, the music icon—who is also now a pastor—said he would not pursue legal action, citing his commitment to Christian values.
He noted that despite the statements made about him, he would refrain from responding with hostility or litigation for the sake of the Christian faith. Shina Peters also stated that God had blessed him abundantly over the decades, adding that those close to him could attest to this.
In a conciliatory tone, he acknowledged that Pastor Ashimolowo, too, had been blessed by God and emphasized that the true measure of success lies in how individuals use their blessings to set positive examples for others.
The exchange has continued to fuel discussions online about wealth, legacy, and the appropriateness of using real-life figures as illustrations in religious teachings, particularly when such comparisons touch on personal finances and long-standing careers.