Charly Boy accuses Nigerian pastors of turning ministry into ‘business’, questions silence on hardship

Veteran Nigerian entertainer Charles Oputa, widely known as Charly Boy, has criticised Christian clerics in the country, alleging that many are more concerned with financial gain than addressing the nation’s worsening challenges.

Speaking on a recent episode of the KAA Truths podcast, the self-styled “Area Fada” expressed frustration over what he described as the silence of some pastors amid rising economic hardship and insecurity across Nigeria.

He alleged that certain church leaders have maintained close ties with politicians accused of corruption while failing to speak out for ordinary citizens.

“All the pastors I know of in Nigeria, 99 per cent of them are useless. It is just a business that they are running,” he said.

Charly Boy also distanced himself from what he called the prevailing mindset around religion and leadership in the country, saying he does not share the same beliefs as many Nigerians.

“I may live in Nigeria but Nigeria does not live in me. I don’t believe like you. I don’t want to think like you people. I’m not in the same class with you people. I come from a different space and time,” he added.

The remarks have sparked debate on social media, with many weighing in on the role of religious leaders in public life and their influence on political and social discourse.

Charly Boy has long been known for challenging institutions and using his platform to question authority and advocate for accountability in governance and society.