Afrobeat singer Seun Kuti has called on the federal government to introduce laws regulating pastors who claim to perform miracles, igniting fresh debate over religion and accountability in Nigeria.
In a video shared online, the musician argued that miracle claims should be subjected to strict medical verification, suggesting the involvement of institutions such as Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH).
According to Kuti, individuals who claim supernatural healing powers should be required to demonstrate such abilities under controlled medical supervision.
He proposed that miracles must be consistently proven, citing extreme examples such as restoring sight to individuals without eyeballs, to establish authenticity.
“They should perform the miracle for ten people at LUTH,” he said, stressing that unverifiable claims should not be tolerated.
Kuti further recommended stringent penalties for those unable to substantiate their claims, suggesting prison sentences of up to 50 years for offenders.
“If a person is unable to perform the miracle, they should be held accountable,” he added.
His comments have since triggered widespread reactions, highlighting ongoing tensions between religious beliefs, scientific scrutiny, and calls for regulation in Nigeria’s public space.