I am your friend, Dr. Charles Apoki, and today, I feel a heavy burden in my spirit regarding the ongoing disputes within the gospel music community. This is a matter that deeply concerns us all, as it involves individuals I know personally: Mercy Chinwo, Judikay, and Eezee Tee Concepts. The situation, which centers around financial disagreements, has escalated on social media and requires immediate intervention.
people have a saying: “I no go gree; you no go gree; dem go tear shirt.” If we continue in this path of public disputes, the inevitable outcome will be damage that we cannot undo. The current back-and-forth has already caused harm, and if unchecked, it will tarnish not only the individuals involved but also the collective image of gospel ministry in Nigeria. Therefore, I make a passionate appeal to the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to step in without delay.
The Role of PFN and CAN
The PFN and CAN must act as mediators in this matter. They have the capacity to assemble impartial adjudicators, including accountants, lawyers, auditors, and other professionals, who can objectively assess the claims and counterclaims. A closed-door meeting should be convened immediately, where all parties involved can present their cases in a calm and structured manner. Simultaneously, these parties must be instructed to cease making further comments on social media. The public arena is not the place for resolving such sensitive issues.
Lessons on Information Management
As Christians, particularly in this digital age, we must learn the importance of information management. Many of the criticisms and attacks on men and women of God stem from what they inadvertently reveal on their social media platforms. This case has further exposed how naïve some of us are about the impact of public disclosures.
For instance, before now, most people were unaware of the financial success of gospel musicians. The mention of figures like $200,000 or $500,000 has drawn unnecessary attention and could lead to legal complications, including tax scrutiny. As I’ve always said, wisdom is profitable to direct.
A Call to the Gospel Music Community
Mercy Chinwo, Judikay, Eezee Tee, and others involved: I urge you to calm down. Before this dispute became public, the world viewed you primarily as ministers devoted to spreading the gospel. Now, there is a risk that people will start seeing gospel ministry as merely a business enterprise. This perception could undermine the credibility of gospel musicians and reinforce negative stereotypes that have long plagued the church.
Our Leaders Must Act
Leaders like Bishop Mike Okonkwo and other respected figures in the faith must rise to this occasion. It is not about loyalty to a daughter, a son, a member, or a mentee. This is about the name of Christ and the integrity of His work. The gospel music industry is a significant platform that can be further developed and improved upon, but its foundation must remain rooted in Christ-centered values.
Moving Forward
Let us bring this matter to a swift, peaceful, and just resolution. Let us protect the reputation of the gospel ministry and focus on promoting unity, justice, and financial transparency. I remain committed to advocating for these values, and I urge everyone involved to do the same.
If you are interested in joining our Citizens Forum—a platform for those who care about the future of our nation—please send a message to me.
God bless you.
Dr. Charles Apoki.
