A Nigerian pastor has sparked debate after warning Christian women against entering relationships with Muslim men, citing religious differences and doctrinal concerns.
In a widely circulated sermon, Emmanuel Iren advised Christian women to end relationships with Muslim partners, arguing that Islamic teachings permit Muslim men to marry Christian or Jewish women but require that children from such unions be raised as Muslims.
According to the cleric, this doctrinal position means that children from a Christian–Muslim marriage would automatically belong to the father’s faith.
He told his audience that women should carefully consider the long-term implications of such unions, particularly regarding the religious upbringing of future children.
Pastor Iren also referenced the Islamic concept of taqiyya, which he described as religiously sanctioned deception used to achieve broader goals, including the expansion of Islam.
He suggested that some Muslim men might misrepresent their intentions during courtship, only for differences to emerge after marriage.
“Break up with him. Don’t even pray about it,” he said during the sermon, quoting the Bible verse that cautions believers against being “unequally yoked” with unbelievers.
He added that Muslims do not share Christian beliefs about Jesus Christ and urged Christian women not to be persuaded by what he described as “sweet words.”
The remarks have generated discussion online, with supporters praising the pastor for what they see as a defence of Christian doctrine, while critics argue that his comments risk deepening religious divisions in a multi-faith society.
Nigeria is home to large Christian and Muslim populations, and interfaith marriages, while not uncommon, can involve complex legal, cultural and religious considerations.
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