A popular Nigerian cleric, Prophet Joel Ogebe, sparked reactions after openly rebuking an engaged couple during a live church sermon for their public display of affection.
The incident took place during a recent service at his church, where Prophet Ogebe paused his sermon to address the couple seated in the congregation. Observing their posture, he inquired whether they were married or related as siblings.
Upon learning that the duo were engaged and set to wed soon, the pastor condemned their behaviour, particularly pointing out the woman's act of resting her head on her fiancé’s hand while in the house of God.
Prophet Ogebe expressed disappointment, stating that even as a married man, his wife had never rested her head on him in public, let alone in church. He described the display as inappropriate and warned the couple to uphold decorum, especially within sacred spaces.
“You are not yet married, and you’re already behaving like this in church. If you can rest your head on each other’s hands here, what might you be doing in secret?” the prophet asked rhetorically, drawing murmurs from the congregation.
The video of the moment has since gone viral on social media, sparking debates on religious discipline, modern relationships, and the boundaries of affection in public and religious settings.
While some viewers praised the pastor for instilling moral discipline, others argued that the rebuke was unnecessary and overly harsh.
The incident continues to trend as viewers weigh in on whether Prophet Ogebe’s public call-out was justified or too extreme.
