AY Says Church Removed Him From Programme Over Public Perception

Popular Nigerian comedian and actor Ayo Makun, widely known as AY, has opened up about why he stopped attending church for some time, saying he was excluded from a church programme because of concerns over how the public perceived him.

Speaking in a video shared on Instagram, AY said his decision to stay away from church was not because he had abandoned his faith but because he was going through a challenging personal period fuelled by negative stories circulating about him online.

He explained that after joining another church, he received a warm welcome from the pastor, the pastor’s family and members of the church leadership.

However, AY said an invitation to participate in one of the church’s programmes was later withdrawn following internal deliberations.

“At some point, I was invited to be part of an upcoming programme. Later, after some internal discussions, I was told I would no longer be participating because of concerns about public perception surrounding me.

“I respected the decision, but I left with a question. When did public opinion become stronger than one’s relationship with the altar and faith?” he said.

The comedian said the development caused him to reflect on the church’s mission, insisting it should always be a place where people find grace, truth and restoration, irrespective of the accusations levelled against them.

AY also reaffirmed his Christian faith by recalling Jesus’ invitation to those carrying heavy burdens.

“He didn’t say, ‘Come after everyone has accepted your story.’ He said, ‘Come.’ No matter what you’re going through, just come. Even the Bible says all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God,” he added.

He concluded his message with a thought-provoking question.

“Who is the church really for?”

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