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Lekki Mosque Banner Declaring “Jesus Is Not God” Sparks Controversy

Published

6 hours ago

Dec 18, 2024.

A banner displayed at the gate of the Lekki Central Mosque in Lagos State has ignited intense reactions across social media, with many Nigerians criticizing its message as controversial and provocative.

The banner, which went viral on Wednesday, reads: “Jesus Christ is not God. He is a Prophet and Messenger of God!” The inscription has divided opinions, sparking debates about religious tolerance and freedom of expression.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that while some social media users labeled the message as blasphemous and disrespectful to Christian beliefs, others defended it, arguing that it aligns with Islamic teachings and has been echoed by certain Christian leaders in the past.

Nigerian actress Wumi Tuase expressed her displeasure on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “I don’t like to get into religious conversations, but I found it very weird that Lekki Central Mosque has this in front of their gate.”

A user with the handle #Fisayo Ojabodu criticized the banner, tweeting, “You don’t see the banner is disrespectful to other people’s religion. And it is propagating a foolish agenda.”

Others shared broader reflections on religious tensions in Nigeria. A user identified as #FS Yusuf tweeted:
“Christianity is actually a religion of peace. In the last two decades, my family church has been set on fire by Muslim extremists for ridiculous reasons, such as religious extremism and Buhari losing his 2011 election.

This is the reality for hundreds of churches and innocent individuals accused of blasphemy. Until we learn to uphold tolerance, we can’t make progress as a pluralistic society.”

While some criticized the banner, others supported its message. On X, a user named Silva Bella wrote: “It’s not about Christianity being a religion of peace or not. Jesus is not God. I have read the Bible a lot, and it’s obvious, but I can’t still get why people call Jesus God. He’s the son, which means God is the father.”

In contrast, another user, GeradTheGreat, argued: “Jesus is God, Jesus is your King, and Jesus will pass judgment on all. For judgment will only be fair through him that has walked in your flesh and felt your pain.”

Many comments highlighted the importance of tolerance in religious discussions. A Christian user, #ChristTheLighthouse, wrote:
“We as Christians accept criticism, backlash, rejection, and even insults. The gospel of repentance and acceptance of Jesus as Lord is never by force, war, coercion, or propaganda. It’s a personal experience guided by the Holy Spirit.”

From the Muslim perspective, Abdul’fattah Muhdl’awwal defended the banner’s message, tweeting: “Jesus himself never said he is God. You and the likes are the ones calling him God. Hence, the quote on that banner is the fact and not blasphemous.”

Lekki Mosque Banner

Some users sought to bridge the divide between the two religious groups. Muhammad Shaikhan commented: “The beauty of this drama between Christians and Muslims is that everyone knows that God is one. The argument is all about the teachings of Jesus and Prophet Muhammad. So I don’t vex.”

The banner has reopened conversations about religious freedom, respect for diverse beliefs, and the need for peaceful coexistence in Nigeria’s pluralistic society.