Miracle or Manipulation? Outrage as Nigerian Pastor Commands 'Miracle Money' to Appear in Congregants Phones [VIDEO]

In a viral video that has set social media ablaze and reignited fierce debates about faith, exploitation, and accountability within Nigeria’s religious landscape, a pastor has come under fire for allegedly commanding "miracle money" to appear in the bank accounts of his congregants during a live church service.

The controversial clip, which began circulating widely this week, shows the unnamed pastor in a dramatic moment of worship, fervently declaring that supernatural funds would begin to reflect in the mobile phones of those present. “Receive it now!” he shouts into the microphone, as church members raise their devices, eyes closed in belief, anticipating financial alerts.

Moments later, several worshippers are seen jubilantly claiming they have received unexpected deposits, sparking cheers, dancing, and frenzied praise throughout the hall.

While some faithful hailed the spectacle as a divine breakthrough, a large segment of the public, including prominent voices from both religious and secular circles, expressed outrage and skepticism. Critics argue that such scenes further expose the growing trend of performative and deceptive practices among certain clergy in the country, designed to manipulate desperate followers seeking financial relief in a struggling economy.

“Faith is sacred, but this is dangerous theatrics,” tweeted social commentator and lawyer, Tope Olumide. “We’re watching pastors become illusionists. What happens when no ‘miracle money’ comes through for some people? These are people’s lives, their hopes being played with.”

Religious watchdog groups have also raised concerns, calling for a deeper examination of such practices which, they argue, exploit the vulnerability of the masses. “The doctrine of sudden wealth via spiritual shortcuts is not only misleading, it promotes financial irresponsibility and dependency,” said Rev. Michael Iduh, a spokesperson for the Nigerian Council of Christian Ethics.

While the identity of the pastor remains unverified at the time of this report, similar incidents in the past involving self-styled prophets have followed a predictable pattern: viral publicity, increased attendance, and eventually, investigations into financial and moral misconduct.

Sociologists and religious analysts say the phenomenon is part of a broader cultural and economic reality where miracle-seeking thrives. With over 63% of the population living in multidimensional poverty, according to recent government data, the allure of instant financial relief—especially when presented as a gift from God—can be overwhelmingly seductive.

“Churches in Nigeria often double as emotional and psychological sanctuaries,” said Dr. Angela Nwosu, a religion and culture lecturer at the University of Lagos. “When people are cornered by economic hardship, the promise of divine intervention through money becomes not only attractive but logical to them.”

However, this incident has reignited calls for regulatory frameworks that go beyond charity or tax concerns and include psychological protections for congregants.

“It’s not just about freedom of religion anymore. We need policies that protect vulnerable citizens from spiritual and financial abuse masquerading as faith,” said Nonso Okechukwu, a civic rights activist.

In the face of growing backlash, some supporters of the pastor maintain that the miracles are real and that skepticism stems from spiritual ignorance. “If God can heal the sick, why can't He provide financial breakthroughs?” one churchgoer argued in a now-viral Facebook post.

Nonetheless, for many Nigerians observing from the sidelines, the scene is less about theology and more about ethics. The central question remains: in a nation battling inflation, unemployment, and widespread economic instability, should hope be sold—or staged—in such a spectacular and public way?

Whether this incident leads to legal repercussions, deeper scrutiny of certain religious practices, or simply fades as another viral sensation, it has undoubtedly reignited a critical national conversation about the intersection of faith, poverty, and power in modern Nigeria.