Sir: Religion in Nigeria is frequently described as a beacon of hope, a source of comfort for millions fighting the nation’s rampant socio-economic problems. However, in recent years, an alarming trend has emerged that is raising eyebrows across the nation: the rise of irrational behaviour and outright foolishness, cloaked in religious fervour. This phenomenon is not limited to the impoverished or uneducated; it has permeated all levels of society, with even highly educated adults falling prey to questionable practices under the guise of religious devotion. This is no longer a virus but an epidemic!
There seem to be a recent addition to this trend – I’m a Chosen. This has become a common proclamation among adherents of a particular Pentecostal sect based in a Lagos suburb with substantial branches across Nigeria. While the phrase may seem innocuous on the surface, it has become symbolic of a deeper issue—the increasing trend of adults abandoning rational thinking in favour of blind allegiance to religious doctrines, sometimes to the point of absurdity.
Religious devotion is nothing new in Nigeria. But the recent surge in unquestioning faith is eroding critical thinking and rational decision-making. Many Nigerians are now more inclined to attribute every aspect of their lives—whether success or failure, health or sickness—to divine intervention, rather than considering logical explanations or personal accountability.
While religious freedom is a constitutional right, the extent to which adults are surrendering their reasoning abilities in favour of religious dogma is rather disturbing.
Religious leaders, many of whom wield significant influence, preach doctrines that discourage questioning or independent thought. In fact, questioning the teachings of religious leaders is often equated with blasphemy or a lack of faith. This attitude has created a culture where blind obedience is glorified, and critical thinking is dismissed as rebellion against divine authority.
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Another worrying trend is the use of religion as a shield against intellectual progress and scientific reasoning. In a country where health issues like malaria, typhoid, and maternal mortality are still rampant, some Nigerians have turned to faith healing and prayer camps instead of seeking medical treatment. This approach has cost lives, but for many, it’s seen as a test of faith.
Adults who should be leading the way in advocating for better healthcare and education are instead urging others to rely on divine intervention. Universities and other centres of learning have not been spared either, as some students refuse to engage with science, reasoning, or evidence-based research, claiming that “God will provide all the answers.”
The workplace is another area where this religious influence is causing friction. Employees who spend hours in prayer sessions instead of focusing on their work or skill development are hindering productivity and competitiveness. Furthermore, the belief that success or promotion is tied to divine favour rather than meritocracy is fostering an unhealthy work culture that rewards faith over competence.
Nigeria, a nation with enormous potential, cannot afford to be led by people who prioritize superstition over sound policy, prayer over planning, and divine intervention over hard work. The country’s future depends on its ability to embrace rationality, education, and innovation—qualities that are often undermined by blind religious devotion.
Faith, in and of itself, is not the problem. Religion can provide comfort, guidance, and a sense of purpose. But when adults abandon reason and allow religion to dictate every aspect of their lives, society as a whole suffers. There is an urgent need for balance—where faith coexists with logic, critical thinking, and personal responsibility.
Nigerians must begin to ask hard questions of their religious leaders and themselves. Are they truly building a better future through blind faith, or are they allowing themselves to be exploited by those who benefit from their ignorance? The time has come for Nigerians to reclaim their intellect, and to demand a future where religion serves as a moral guide, not a tool for manipulation.
•Olalekan Adigun, Abuja.
