The founder Liberty Gospel Foundation Ministries and president of Liberty Gospel Church (LGC) has come under intense criticism by social media users over narratives bothering dominantly on witchcraft branding NEGROIDHAVEN can report.
The controversial figure of Lady Apostle Helen Ukpabio has once again ignited a firestorm of criticism and debate, as she faces backlash for her continued branding of witchcraft. Social media platforms, particularly Facebook, have become battlegrounds for heated discussions and condemnation of Ukpabio’s practices, with users expressing outrage and concern over the impact of her teachings.
The catalyst for the latest wave of criticism was a religious programme signboard advertising “Freedom from Witchcraft Attacks,” scheduled to take place at Liberty Gospel Church in Calabar from the 8th to the 12th of May 2024. This announcement reignited longstanding tensions surrounding Ukpabio’s approach to spiritual matters, particularly her emphasis on combating witchcraft.
The online discourse was characterized by a mix of condemnation, skepticism, and calls for action. Users such as Flawless Duke a music artiste and James Ibor a legal practitioner expressed their disapproval of Ukpabio’s focus on witchcraft branding, with Flawless Duke directly addressing Ukpabio, stating, “The only witch I know is you Ma.”
Others, like Emmanuel Enoch, urged for the removal of the controversial post, citing potential harm and the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes. The sentiment was echoed by prominent figures such as Anja Ringgren Loven, founder of the African Children’s Aid Education and Development Foundation, who emphasized the danger of stigmatizing children as witches.
Amidst the uproar, some users raised concerns about the impact of Ukpabio’s teachings on vulnerable individuals and the perpetuation of spiritual slavery. James Ibor of Basic Right Counsel Initiative criticized Ukpabio as a “notorious African Witch-hunter,” while Amaka Chude labeled her practices as “spiritual slavery.”
However, amidst the criticism, there were voices advocating for a nuanced approach and a deeper understanding of Ukpabio’s teachings. Ndoma Akunobor defended Ukpabio, suggesting that her church, Liberty Gospel Church, has been engaged in various positive activities beyond addressing witchcraft attacks.
Feelers suggest the conversations on social media mirror a broader societal debate surrounding the role of religion, spirituality, and cultural beliefs in contemporary Nigeria, it remains to be seen whether Lady Apostle Helen Ukpabio will address the mounting criticism or if her teachings will continue to stir controversy in Cross River cyberspace and beyond.
