Media personality and social commentator Solomon Buchi has strongly criticised gospel singer Yinka Alaseyori following her comments on the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, sparking fresh debate over faith, governance, and accountability in Nigeria.
The controversy began after Alaseyori publicly addressed the tragic incident, expressing confidence that the government and security agencies were making efforts to secure the victims’ release. She also encouraged Nigerians to remain prayerful and hopeful during the difficult period.
However, Buchi disagreed with her position and took to Instagram to share a video response in which he accused some religious figures of allowing political affiliations and interests to influence their public statements.
In the video, Buchi argued that the emotional tone of a message should not be mistaken for substance, insisting that facts and accountability remain more important than sentiment.
“You see, just because you’ve added some mellow music in the background of what you’re saying does not mean that you’re making sense. It doesn’t mean that you know what you’re saying. Some of you gospel ministers and even pastors are sellouts. You’ve sold your conscience to politicians.”
The author and relationship commentator further alleged that some gospel artistes and church leaders have become too comfortable defending political leaders, especially when they benefit from relationships with those in power.
Buchi questioned Alaseyori’s praise of government efforts, pointing out that the abducted children and teachers had remained in captivity for an extended period despite assurances that authorities were working on the situation.
According to him, the continued absence of the victims raises serious concerns about security and governance, issues he believes should not be overlooked in favour of encouraging prayers alone.
He stressed that while prayer remains important to believers, practical leadership, effective policies, and decisive government action are equally necessary in addressing national challenges.
Drawing comparisons with countries he believes have made significant developmental progress, Buchi argued that advancement comes through strategic planning, accountability, and the effective use of available resources.
“They are working, and children have been kidnapped for the past 2 weeks. Do you understand that in some countries, a lost dog will be found within 24 hours, whereas children in Nigeria may go missing for years? I mean this very respectfully. I am a Christian, I believe in prayers, but you see, prayers will not do for us what God has given us the ability to do for ourselves,” Buchi added.
The media personality maintained that faith should not be used as a substitute for demanding responsible governance. He argued that citizens have a right to question leaders and seek tangible solutions to pressing national problems.
Concluding his remarks, Buchi criticised what he described as a version of Christianity that focuses heavily on prayer while neglecting accountability and civic responsibility.
“You guys need to stop this nonsense, psychopathic, psychotic version of Christianity that you are using to enslave people in Nigeria, because some of you are actually using it to enslave people.”
His comments have since generated mixed reactions online. While some Nigerians agreed with his call for greater accountability from political leaders, others felt his criticism of Alaseyori was too harsh and failed to acknowledge the role of faith and prayer during times of crisis.
The exchange has further fueled ongoing conversations about the responsibility of public figures, religious leaders, and gospel artistes when commenting on national issues, particularly matters involving security, governance, and the welfare of citizens.