• Emmanuel Iren, responds to criticism regarding silence on recent violence.
• A deadly attack in Plateau State resulted in over 50 deaths, including children, causing national outrage.
• Many Nigerians are expressing anger on social media, calling for prominent pastors to advocate for justice.

Emmanuel Iren, Senior Pastor of Celebration Church International, has firmly addressed the criticism directed at him and other high-profile Nigerian pastors for their alleged silence following the recent deadly attack in Plateau State.

The massacre, which claimed the lives of over 50 individuals—including children—has stirred widespread outrage across the country. Many Nigerians have voiced their anger on social media, urging influential faith leaders such as Pastor E.A. Adeboye, Bishop David Oyedepo, and Pastor Iren to speak out and demand justice.

In response to the backlash, Pastor Iren shared his thoughts on the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), expressing his dismay at the accusations. He rejected the assumption that his quietness reflected indifference and highlighted the behind-the-scenes humanitarian work his ministry has been engaged in—not just in Plateau, but across various northern regions.

According to Iren, these initiatives were intentionally carried out discreetly, not for public recognition or media attention, but out of genuine compassion and commitment. He also challenged critics to reflect on their own actions before passing judgment, implying that meaningful impact often happens away from the spotlight.

Pastor Iren Emmanuel fumes over alleged silence on Plateau killings

“Grow up! Social media is not real life. In Plateau alone (not even the whole north), last year we;

– Paid for the treatment of a man whose arm was amputated by bandits.

– Sent clothes to villages

– have had kids on scholarship for five years now

– Partnered with missionaries

– Helped families escape attacks.”

He added, “All of these without noise or paparazzi like people who actually care and not to “score points” in public eye.

1. Before you come here to take the moral high ground, ensure you’re at least doing what I am doing or better.

2. Except you are a member of my Church, I don’t owe you any accountability. You do not tell me when or how to speak up.

“I do not hold a public office. Maybe holding the leaders who do accountable will be a better idea. At the end of the day, God marks our scripts.”