A public disagreement has emerged between gospel singer Testimony Jaga and former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo over comments on the so-called “prosperity gospel,” reigniting conversations around religion, poverty, and the role of the Church in society.
Osinbajo had recently drawn attention after criticising what he described as the prosperity gospel, a teaching often associated with material wealth being linked to faith. His remarks generated wide reactions across religious and public circles, with supporters and critics offering differing interpretations of his position.
Responding in a video that has since circulated online, Testimony Jaga rejected the categorisation altogether, arguing that Christianity has only one message. He maintained that separating the gospel into different versions is misleading, insisting instead that “there is only one gospel—the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”
He further questioned the basis for Osinbajo’s criticism of the Church, suggesting that moral authority to challenge religious institutions should be carefully considered. In his response, he referenced Osinbajo’s tenure in public office, urging accountability regarding his contributions while serving as Vice President.
The singer also shifted attention to Nigeria’s socio-economic conditions, stressing that widespread poverty remains a pressing reality that faith messages cannot ignore. He argued that religious teachings should acknowledge hardship and provide encouragement rather than be perceived as condemning those struggling economically.
According to him, the essence of the gospel is rooted in hope and transformation, particularly for people facing difficult circumstances. While acknowledging that abuses exist within some religious spaces, he cautioned against using such cases to dismiss the broader Christian message.
Jaga concluded by calling for consistency between preaching and action, urging leaders in both religious and political spheres to demonstrate tangible support for the poor and to reflect the values they promote publicly.