By Rita Enemuru, Reporting
A heated debate has erupted within Nigeria’s Christian community following a viral video in which Dr Charles Apoki, cleric and social commentator, openly criticised Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo for officiating the wedding of controversial preacher, Dr Chris Okafor.
In the widely circulated footage, Dr Apoki expressed deep disappointment with Ashimolowo’s decision, declaring pointedly: “I am ashamed of you.”
He warned that any society, including the Church, that abandons moral rules risks collapse.
Dr Apoki accused Dr Okafor of several alleged moral failings, including the performance of fake miracles, citing viral clips on social media.
He further alleged that Okafor abandoned his first wife and children and accused him of living immorally with actress Doris Ogala who’s currently crying foul all over social media.
According to Apoki, church leaders should not be seen endorsing individuals whose character and reputation are questionable.
“A man who has no character, no reputation and no integrity should not be promoted by the leadership of the church,” he said, warning that such associations send a dangerous signal to believers.
Backing his stance with biblical examples, Apoki referenced figures such as Achan, Ananias and Sapphira, who suffered consequences for moral failure.
He also drew from African traditional values, stressing that communities historically avoided close association with people of questionable conduct to avoid appearing to condone wrongdoing.
“You don’t greet him. You don’t collect fire from his kitchen. You don’t trade with him,” Apoki said. “When you do, you seem to approve of his conduct.”
Dr Apoki disclosed that his outspoken position has attracted backlash, including being barred from preaching in some churches.
However, he remained defiant, stating that he neither depends on church invitations nor offerings for survival.
He criticised what he described as Pentecostalism’s excessive emphasis on grace at the expense of accountability, warning that it could lead to moral decay if unchecked.
He urged church elders to speak out, cautioning that silence could mislead younger believers.
While distancing himself from opposition to remarriage, Dr Apoki clarified that his concern lay not with the institution itself but with the circumstances and character surrounding Okafor’s case.
He cited biblical precedent, including Esther’s marriage to a divorced king, to underline that context and integrity matter.
The controversy has continued to stir conversations online, reigniting debates about accountability, leadership and moral standards within the Nigerian church.
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