Northern Christian Association warns against hostile religious exchanges on social media

Joseph Hayab, Chairman of the NCA, issued a statement in Kaduna, urging restraint amid growing religious provocations on social media. Hayab noted that many online debates, often presented as faith defense, contradict biblical teachings and risk deepening divisions. He described these engagements as "vain and unprofitable arguments" that frequently lead to strife and ungodliness.

Citing biblical passages like Titus 3:9 and 2 Timothy 2:23, Hayab emphasized that Christians should not respond to provocation with hostility, even when their faith is ridiculed. He stated that he does not encourage insulting other faiths, even if Jesus or Christianity are criticized. Hayab maintained that God, being omnipotent, does not require human defense through verbal attacks, as such actions diminish Christianity's essence.

He warned against copying "misguided religious zeal," explaining that emotional reactions to provocation undermine Christianity's message of love and peace. Hayab added that using abusive language to defend faith misrepresents Christianity and weakens its moral authority. Social media platforms in Nigeria have become arenas for heated religious exchanges, with inflammatory posts often going viral and sometimes leading to physical confrontations.