By OLALEKAN ADIGUN

Religion in Nigeria is frequently described as a beacon of hope, a source of comfort for millions fighting the nation?s rampant socioeconomic problems. Every Friday and Sunday, believers flock to various places of worship to express their admiration for or requests from a Higher Being known as God, Allah, or whatever name S/He may be (or choose to be).

However, in recent years, an alarming trend has emerged that is raising eyebrows across the nation: the rise of irrational behavior and outright foolishness, cloaked in religious fervor. This phenomenon is not limited to the impoverished or uneducated; it has permeated all levels of society, with even highly educated adults falling prey to questionable practices under the guise of religious devotion. This is no longer a virus but an epidemic!

There seem to be a recent addition to this trend: ?I?m a Chosen?. This has become a common proclamation among adherents of the Lazarus Muoka-led Lord?s Chosen Charismatic Revival Ministries, a Pentecostal sect based in Ijesha, a Lagos suburb with substantial branches across Nigeria. While the phrase may seem innocuous on the surface, it has become symbolic of a deeper Issue ? the increasing trend of adults abandoning rational thinking in favor of blind allegiance to religious doctrines, sometimes to the point of absurdity.

Religious devotion is nothing new in Nigeria. With Christianity and Islam as the dominant faiths, religion plays a central role in the lives of millions. But the recent surge in unquestioning faith, particularly within Pentecostal churches, is eroding critical thinking and rational decision-making. Many Nigerians are now more inclined to attribute every aspect of their lives?whether success or failure, health or sickness?to divine intervention, rather than considering logical explanations or personal accountability as the ?testimonies? stamped with ?I?m a Chosen? have shown.

In 2016, I wrote the article ?This Rampaging Dis-Ease Called Religion!? against the backdrop of the rampaging madness displayed, manifested by some devotees of Abrahamic religions in Nigeria. I wrote against blind faith, suspension of reason, and growing religious fanaticism. As things were then, they still are now. Rather tragic!

For example, members of the Lord?s Chosen movement are often seen wearing neon green aprons emblazoned with the words ?I?m a Chosen,? and engaging in practices that range from shouting incantations in public places to refusing medical treatment in favor of prayers. While religious freedom is a constitutional right, the extent to which adults are surrendering their reasoning abilities in favor of religious dogma is rather disturbing.

Religious leaders, many of whom wield significant influence, preach doctrines that discourage questioning or independent thought. In fact, questioning the teachings of religious leaders is often equated with blasphemy or a lack of faith. This attitude has created a culture where blind obedience is glorified, and critical thinking is dismissed as rebellion against divine authority.

For example, how could an adult who has practically lived a full lifetime believe that simply declaring ?I?m a Chosen,? she can defeat three able-bodied armed robbers (carrying Russian-made AK47 rifles) unscathed or injured? The same AK47 rifles used in the independence struggles of various African and Latin American countries, including Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Angola. The struggle against the Apartheid state in South Africa had little meaning until AK47 rifles shifted the balance in favor of ANC rebels. A woman in her late 60s ?collected? these AK47 rifles from three young, armed guys by just declaring ?I?m a Chosen? three times. Even though we were once taught by Jamie Uys? 1980 comedy film that THE GODS MUST BE CRAZY, must we all continue to grow mad? Shall we continue to be mad for grace to abound? God forbid!

Another worrying trend is the use of religion as a shield against intellectual progress and scientific reasoning. In a country where health issues like malaria, typhoid, and maternal mortality are still rampant, some Nigerians have turned to faith healing and prayer camps instead of seeking medical treatment. This approach has cost lives, but for many, it?s seen as a test of faith.

Adults who should be leading the way in advocating for better healthcare and education are instead urging others to rely on divine intervention. Universities and other centers of learning have not been spared either, as some students refuse to engage with science, reasoning, or evidence-based research, claiming that ?God will provide all the answers.?

The workplace Is another area where this religious influence is causing friction. Employees who spend hours in prayer sessions instead of focusing on their work or skill development are hindering productivity and competitiveness. Furthermore, the belief that success or promotion is tied to divine favor rather than meritocracy is fostering an unhealthy work culture that rewards faith over competence.

Nigeria, a nation with enormous potential, cannot afford to be led by people who prioritize superstition over sound policy, prayer over planning, and divine intervention over hard work. The country?s future depends on its ability to embrace rationality, education, and innovation ? qualities that are often undermined by blind religious devotion.

Faith, in and of itself, is not the problem. Religion can provide comfort, guidance, and a sense of purpose. But when adults abandon reason and allow religion to dictate every aspect of their lives, society as a whole suffers. There is an urgent need for balance ? where faith coexists with logic, critical thinking, and personal responsibility.

Nigerians must begin to ask hard questions of their religious leaders and themselves. Are they truly building a better future through blind faith, or are they allowing themselves to be exploited by those who benefit from their ignorance? The time has come for Nigerians to reclaim their intellect, and to demand a future where religion serves as a moral guide, not a tool for manipulation.

?Olalekan Adigun, a public affairs analyst, writes from Abuja. He tweets from @MrLekanAdigun

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