A growing wave of public skepticism has followed Nollywood actress Tonto Dikeh’s apparent entry into Christian ministry, igniting debates around authenticity, mentorship, and the rising trend of celebrity-to-pulpit transitions in Nigeria NEGROIDHAVEN can say.
The discussion, sparked by a Facebook post from activist and columnist Agba Jalingo, highlights deep-seated public doubts about the sincerity and preparedness of celebrities who launch ministries soon after professing conversion. Jalingo’s post, which has attracted dozens of reactions, sarcastically suggested donations would soon pour in from her 6.5 million followers, “Jerry Eze style,” and quipped, “Just tell those people, the Lord said… Dassol!”
Many commenters questioned the speed and structure of Dikeh’s spiritual journey. Olaniyi Adebiyi asked, “How do you switch from a new convert straight to a ministry leader? No place for tutelage?” Others, like Enyi Isaac Item, expressed confusion over the “emergency apostle” and noted the performative aspect: “I wonder why always setting cameras.”
The actress, known for her high-profile personal life and past controversies, has recently begun sharing more faith-based content, signaling a shift toward religious influence. This move places her in a line of Nigerian celebrities, including popular gospel singer and pastor Jerry Eze, who have leveraged fame to build ministry platforms—often with significant financial and social returns.
Critics on the thread pointed to potential financial motives. One user, Adeyanju Taiwo Ifetamilayo, described Christianity as “a multi-billion dollars industry” and framed Dikeh’s pivot as a content strategy: “One of the easiest way[s] to garner traffic on social media as [a] content creator in Africa is through religion propaganda.”
However, not all reactions were cynical. Some defended Dikeh’s right to preach, citing divine unpredictability. Mauricemoore Midea wrote, “The good thing about this God we serve is he does things his own way. God chooses the one we will use.” Another commenter added, “God can use anybody or anything… He sure can use Tonto Dikeh to spread the gospel.”
The debate taps into broader questions about credibility, mentorship, and the commercialization of faith in Nigeria’s vibrant religious landscape. It also reflects public fatigue with perceived opportunism in celebrity ministry ventures, especially against a backdrop of past scandals involving well-known pastors.
As of press time, Tonto Dikeh has not issued an official statement clarifying the nature or scope of her ministry plans. Whether her spiritual rebranding will gain lasting congregational support or remain a subject of social media scrutiny is yet to be seen.
