Christian Youths Protest Cyber Bullying Of Nigerian Pastors
A group of Christian youths under the banner of the Concerned Christian Youth Forum (CCYF) held a peaceful protest at Unity Fountain, Abuja, decrying what they described as sustained online attacks against Christian leaders in Nigeria.
The protesters voiced concerns over a growing trend of social media content targeting pastors with defamation and hate speech. Holding placards with messages promoting religious respect, the group called for an end to what they see as deliberate efforts to discredit Christianity through digital platforms.
Speaking during the protest, the forum’s convener, Adama James Paul, said Christian leaders are increasingly becoming subjects of ridicule and slander online. He described the situation as a coordinated attempt to undermine the faith and those who represent it.
Paul accused certain activists and influencers, including Omoyele Sowore, of encouraging a culture of religious disrespect. He claimed the attacks were not isolated incidents but part of a larger scheme to incite religious division in the country.
“These cyber campaigns are designed to stir conflict and erode the moral authority of our pastors,” Paul said. “This is not just criticism—it’s digital persecution masked as free speech.”
He urged the Nigerian government to step in and regulate online spaces to prevent further damage to the country’s religious fabric. He also called on media organisations and civil society groups to promote responsible discourse and protect religious freedom.
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The group expressed support for the Federal Government’s Forest Guard initiative, describing it as a step toward enhancing security in rural areas. However, they emphasised the need for the guards to be properly equipped to deal with threats in remote communities.
CCYF called on Nigerians to unite across religious lines and resist attempts to sow discord through online platforms. They warned that unchecked digital hostility could worsen existing tensions and threaten national unity.
The protest highlights rising concerns over online discourse and its impact on Nigeria’s diverse religious landscape. As the country navigates growing digital influence, questions around freedom of speech, accountability, and religious tolerance remain central to public debate.
Content Credit: Ajibola Emmanuel
Image Credit: championnews.com.ng/