Popular Nigerian comedian and actor Ayo Makun, better known as AY, has explained why he stopped attending church, revealing that it was not due to a loss of faith.

In a video shared on his Instagram page on Sunday, he said the decision was influenced by the public scrutiny and negative narratives surrounding his divorce.

AY noted that he stepped back to avoid being the subject of whispered conversations and online judgment. He also shared that he attempted to worship at another church but became discouraged after he was dropped from a programme he was booked for, with the church citing concerns about public perception.

The comedian questioned the role of the church, wondering if it should not be a safe place for those seeking truth, grace, and restoration. He expressed disappointment over how people are quick to judge without knowing the full story.

He said:
“For some time now, I stopped attending church not because I stopped believing in God or lost my faith. I was actually navigating a very personal season; the negative narrative put out on the blogs against me.

“So, I chose to step back quietly. Part of that decision was because I didn’t want to become the subject of whispered conversations.”

“Shouldn’t the church be the safest place to find truth, grace, and restoration? If people cannot run to God’s house when life becomes heavy on them, where are they meant to run to? The clueless people who just post negative comments on social media or go ahead and judge you without even knowing the root of whatever happened? Or the few friends who would skilfully avoid you because of public perception?.”