A Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Mentor Ehioma, has questioned the lyrical content of a newly released gospel song by popular Nigerian singer Chinyere Udoma, sparking widespread debate on social media.
In a post shared online, Fr. Ehioma expressed concern over the choice of words used in the song, asking whether such lyrics were appropriate for children and church settings. While acknowledging the song’s growing popularity and number of shares, the priest queried the explicit references contained in the lyrics.
“Chinyere Udoma, please check the numbers, check the views. I even shared it,” he wrote. “But on a serious note, why did you sing that kind of thing? Why those words? Can children sing it?”
In the controversial song, Udoma sings about resisting sinful desires of the flesh, with lyrics that reference temptations such as sexual immorality, masturbation, and stealing, while emphasizing her commitment to righteousness and salvation.
Fr. Ehioma’s criticism has generated mixed reactions among fans and gospel music listeners.
Reacting to the post, Patrick Okwy Ucheagwu defended the singer, stating that the song truthfully reflects the daily struggles of believers. According to him, the message was carefully expressed and could be sung in churches, including by children.
Another commenter, Ukanwoke Onyinyechi, argued that children are already exposed to more explicit secular songs, questioning why a gospel song addressing moral struggles should be considered inappropriate.
Similarly, Ufoaroh Chidi Joshua said the lyrics align with biblical teachings often preached to both adults and children in churches, describing the song as a direct reflection of scripture.
For Akam Ogochukwu, the controversy was unnecessary, insisting there was nothing wrong with the song’s message.
The debate continues as listeners remain divided over the balance between realism and sensitivity in gospel music lyrics.
