Nollywood Actor Jamiu Azeez Responds to Backlash Over Faith

Nollywood actor and filmmaker Jamiu Azeez has addressed the social media storm sparked by reports that he converted from Islam to Christianity.

The controversy began after a video showing Azeez attending a church service in a white outfit circulated online. The clip quickly drew attention, prompting some members of the Muslim community to question his faith and even suggest that he should change his name.

Fans and critics alike flooded social media with reactions, ranging from curiosity to outright criticism.

On Sunday, January 4, Jamiu took to his social media accounts to clarify the situation. Sharing screenshots of messages he had received, he emphasized that his faith is a personal matter and that he never publicly announced any conversion.

He wrote, “It’s only in Nigeria people are so bothered about another person’s life. Imagine telling a man in his 40s how to live his life. I posted myself in white garment on the crossover night and mehn, the comments I have been reading on blogs, especially on Facebook, are crazy. Some even came to my DM to drag me… I can choose to practise any religion and that should not be anyone’s problem. I never even came out to say I have converted o.”

Jamiu also joked that he could wear traditional spiritual attire if he wished, highlighting the absurdity of the intense scrutiny he has faced.

Opinion: Respecting Personal Faith Choices

In an era where public figures’ lives are constantly dissected online, Jamiu’s response serves as a reminder that faith is deeply personal. While curiosity is natural, the backlash shows a troubling trend of trying to control how adults live their lives.

Nigeria, with its rich religious diversity, would do well to embrace a culture where personal faith choices are respected rather than judged. For Azeez, his message is clear: his beliefs are his own, and social media commentary should not dictate how he lives.