Nollywood actress and filmmaker Mary Njoku has challenged Christians who invoke scripture to deflect criticism, arguing that biblical teachings should not be used as a shield against accountability for publicly made statements or actions.
Njoku made the remarks in a post shared on Instagram, where she questioned the use of the popular biblical phrase, “touch not my anointed,” in situations where individuals are being criticised for their own conduct.
According to the filmmaker, the scripture may be relevant when someone is falsely accused, deliberately lied against or targeted with malicious intent, but should not be used to silence legitimate criticism arising from a person’s publicly documented words or actions.
“When someone gives an accurate account of what you said or did publicly, and it’s causing you harm. Brethren, the problem isn’t the storyteller.
“The problem is what you said or did. Take responsibility for it. Own your words. Own your actions. Reflect on them, apologise if necessary, explain yourself if there is context, and move on,” she wrote.
Njoku argued that accountability should not be interpreted as an attack on a person’s faith or spiritual standing. Rather, she encouraged people facing criticism to examine their conduct and respond appropriately instead of attempting to shut down those raising concerns.
She further distinguished between false accusations and criticism based on facts, saying the biblical injunction should not be invoked simply because an individual is experiencing negative consequences from their own words or actions.
“Touch not my anointed applies when someone falsely accuses you, lies against you, or deliberately tries to harm you.
“It doesn’t apply when you bring the consequences upon yourself through your own words or actions. Weaponising scripture against the truth can backfire,” she added.
The actress also emphasised that religious leaders and other prominent figures remain human despite their positions, and are therefore capable of making mistakes.
She called for a balance between accountability and compassion, urging Christians to acknowledge wrongdoing, apologise where necessary and extend to others the same understanding they would expect to receive.
“Nobody is perfect. After all, men of God are still human. They aren’t above making mistakes or being held accountable. They deserve grace and understanding, just like everyone else,” Njoku wrote.
She concluded by encouraging people to accept responsibility for their actions while also showing grace towards others.
“So cut yourself some slack, take responsibility when necessary, and allow others the same grace you would want for yourself,” she said.
Njoku’s comments have stirred discussion around the intersection of faith, public criticism and accountability, particularly the way biblical scriptures are interpreted when religious leaders or other public figures come under scrutiny.