Melody Adjija Calls for Fair Treatment of Pastors Amidst Criticism

By Henry Ubus

In a recent Facebook video, Prophet Melody Adjija, the Presiding Pastor of Light Way Ministry, also known as the “Last Bus Stop,” has passionately addressed the increasing criticism faced by pastors. Speaking in Pidgin English, he questioned the unfair treatment of pastors compared to entertainers and celebrities.

“Make Pastors breath,” Prophet Adjija urged, asking rhetorically, “Wetin Pastor’s do una?” He compared the financial support that entertainers receive from their fans to the often-criticized offerings and tithes given to pastors by their congregations.

He illustrated his point by referring to the hefty price tag of ₦10 million for a ticket to music star Davido’s marriage reception. Prophet Adjija narrated an incident where a woman, desperate to attend Davido’s reception, offered to sell her ₦10 million car to afford the ticket. “Somebody should come and buy the car so that she can use it to pay for the ticket of the marriage that will not last more than 2 to 3 hours,” he recounted. He noted the large sums of money attendees would likely spend at the event, emphasizing that it was accepted without criticism.

“Davido did not hypnotize anybody,” Adjija pointed out, contrasting this with the scrutiny faced by church members who tithe or give offerings. “A member will come to church and give tithe of about ₦50,000 depending on their salaries once in a month, only faithful people pay tithe while the offering is nothing to talk about in spite of the mammoth crowd,” he said. He highlighted that only a small fraction of Church members consistently tithe, yet pastors are often accused of exploiting their congregations.

Prophet Adjija drew attention to the double standards in societal attitudes towards spending on entertainment versus contributions to religious institutions. “Members will buy cars for Pastors they will say Pastors dey use una head but same people will pay ₦1.5 million for a table of 4 at AY’s show but AY is not using their heads,” he remarked. He noted how people willingly spend large sums at entertainment events without similar accusations of exploitation.

Reflecting on a viral video of a pastor being showered with money on the altar, Adjija lamented the derogatory comments labeling the congregation as “gullible.” He contrasted this with the absence of such criticism when people spend extravagantly at comedy shows. “Same people saying gullible will go to one Comedian show and pay ₦50,000 for a ticket and still spray money,” he observed.

Citing Mark 10:18, where Jesus said, “Nobody is good except God,” Prophet Adjija argued that everyone has flaws and that the harsh judgment of pastors is unwarranted. He criticized bloggers who focus solely on pastors for their content, calling it an unfair portrayal of religious leaders.

“Preaching is very stressful,” he explained, highlighting the demanding nature of pastoral work. “The Pastors have wife and children that he catered. It is stressful to preach to people over ten years with different messages unlike comedians who can crack one joke in different occasions yet people will still laugh.” He emphasized the dedication required to deliver sermons and respond to the needs of the congregation at all hours.

Prophet Adjija pointed out the hypocrisy in how society views gifts given to pastors compared to those given to celebrities. He mentioned a billionaire who bought a luxurious car for the musician Portable, suggesting that if the same gift were given to a pastor, it would be met with accusations of manipulation. “Na wetin Pastors do una?” he questioned, calling for a change in attitude towards pastors.

Concluding his message, Prophet Adjija clarified that he is not against Davido or any entertainer. “I celebrate Davido because he is unique and excellent,” he said, stressing that his point was to highlight the humanity of pastors and the need for equitable treatment. “Let the Pastors breathe,” he implored, urging for understanding and respect for religious leaders.

This passionate plea from Prophet Adjija underscores the ongoing debate about the societal perceptions of religious and entertainment figures, calling for a more balanced and fair approach in evaluating their roles and contributions.