Nigerian gospel singer, Salau Olayiwola, popularly known as Testimony Jaga, has disagreed with former Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, over his recent comments on the concept of prosperity gospel.
Osinbajo had stirred debate after stating that there is no distinct doctrine known as “prosperity gospel,” arguing that the Christian message is singular and centred on the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Speaking during a live debate at Rock of Ages Christian Assembly International, Osinbajo said attempts to separate prosperity from the gospel distort its essence.
“The New Testament, no matter how we slice it, there is no such thing as prosperity gospel. There is only one gospel, the gospel of Jesus Christ,” he said, adding that any deviation from it amounts to “perversion.”
He maintained that the gospel’s ultimate message is truth and redemption, stressing that believers will always face attempts at distraction, including material temptations.
However, reacting in a video circulating online on Sunday, Testimony Jaga rejected Osinbajo’s position, insisting that there is only one gospel but warning against ignoring the realities of poverty.
“I saw a video where you were condemning the prosperity gospel. With due respect, there is no such thing as prosperity gospel. There is only one gospel, the Gospel of Jesus Christ,” he said.
Jaga, however, questioned the relevance of that framing in a country grappling with economic hardship, arguing that the church must also address material struggles.
“Do you understand what poverty does to people? As a politician, what have you done to address it?” he asked.
He maintained that the gospel should offer hope and upliftment rather than condemnation, especially to struggling citizens.
“The gospel is good news. If people are struggling, they should hear a message of upliftment, not condemnation,” he said.
The gospel artiste also challenged Osinbajo’s record in public office and ministry, urging him to demonstrate tangible impact.
“Show us the people whose lives you transformed. Show evidence of support for the poor or meaningful development,” he added.
While acknowledging the existence of excesses in religious circles, Jaga said such abuses should not overshadow the message of Christianity.
“There are fake pastors, yes, but the gospel itself remains a message of hope and transformation,” he said.
