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Popular Pastor Agbala Gabriel Faces Fraud, Sexual Allegations

Published

1 day ago

March 14, 2026

Ibadan‑based cleric, Kayode Amusan, widely known online as Agbala Gabriel

Popular Pastor Agbala Gabriel Faces Fraud, Sexual Allegations

An Ibadan‑based cleric, Kayode Amusan, widely known online as Agbala Gabriel, is facing intense public scrutiny after a wave of allegations of sexual misconduct, mismanagement of donations, and ethical lapses spread across social media platforms, including Facebook, TikTok and Instagram.

For years, Agbala Gabriel built a strong online following as a charismatic religious leader and social media pastor who frequently rallied support and raised funds for sick, vulnerable and economically disadvantaged individuals. Videos of him praying for struggling families and appealing for donations circulated widely, earning him admiration from many Nigerians who viewed him as a compassionate cleric deeply committed to charity work.

However, in recent days, that reputation has been challenged by a series of allegations that have sparked a fierce online debate and prompted calls from some quarters for accountability and transparency.

Accusations Over Medical Fundraising and Care

One of the most widely circulated controversies involves the case of a woman identified only as Morenikeji, who reportedly suffered from a debilitating spinal condition that attracted public fundraising efforts.

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In a now‑viral video, Nollywood actress Foluke Daramola discussed her involvement in raising funds for Morenikeji’s medical surgery and the subsequent concerns about how the situation was handled. Daramola explained that she had contributed to raising money to support the woman’s surgery, but when the patient’s family later sought Agbala Gabriel’s help, Daramola said she withdrew her involvement.

“I initially raised money for the woman’s surgery, which wasn’t enough. But as soon as the family took her to Agbala Gabriel’s care, I withdrew,” Daramola said in the video.

She further alleged that Gabriel did not provide the promised support, including adequate accommodation and the necessary medical intervention for the patient.

Morenikeji’s daughter also appeared in the video, alleging that she removed her mother from the pastor’s care out of concern for how the situation was being managed.

These revelations prompted many social media users and followers to question the cleric’s handling of funds and his commitment to those he publicly pledged to help.

Sexual Misconduct and Personal Conduct Allegations

As the controversy over the medical case spread, another allegation surfaced — this time involving claims of sexual misconduct and relationships with women associated with his ministry.

A prominent online commentator known as Iyalaje Courtroom alleged during a live broadcast that Agbala Gabriel had engaged in personal relationships with women, including a former backup singer named “Bolu”. According to the commentator, Bolu became pregnant for the pastor and later delivered twins.

“She was about 23 when the relationship started and she is now 25,” the online commentator said. “Agbala Gabriel initially denied the pregnancy, but after pressure, he later accepted responsibility and rented a house for the lady and the twins.”

The claim was echoed by a charity advocate, Princess Adeyinka, who alleged that she had personally intervened when the matter first surfaced. She said Gabriel initially denied the relationship before eventually taking responsibility and making some provision for the woman and her children.

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“Agbala Gabriel impregnated Bolu and refused to take full responsibility initially,” Adeyinka said. “I went to him myself to beg him to take responsibility when I first heard about it, which he denied initially but later took responsibility.”

Public Reaction and Online Debate

As the allegations spread rapidly across social media, reactions have been sharply divided. Some of Agbala Gabriel’s supporters defended his years of charitable work and questioned the timing or motives behind the accusations. Others, however, called for greater transparency, formal investigations, and accountability from religious leaders who solicit public donations for humanitarian causes.

Many commentators noted that the viral nature of the accusations reflects a growing trend in which faith leaders with large online followings are held to higher standards of conduct by digitally empowered audiences.

Agbala Gabriel’s Response to the Allegations

In response to the mounting allegations, Agbala Gabriel denied any wrongdoing. In an interview with Saturday PUNCH, he rejected the claims as false and defamatory, dismissing them as part of a broader pattern of online attacks on religious figures.

“This is how they try to bring ministers of God down,” he said. “All ministers who became famous faced this kind of lies. We see men of God like Pastor Adeboye, and other famous pastors being dragged on social media every day. This is just how they do on social media, making false allegations.”

He insisted that the accusations were “lies and distortions” and urged his followers and the wider public not to draw conclusions until credible evidence emerges.

Calls for Investigation and Accountability

While Agbala Gabriel maintains his innocence, some advocacy groups and members of the public are calling for formal investigations by relevant authorities, such as anti‑fraud and consumer protection agencies, to examine the allegations of mismanagement of donations and personal misconduct. Critics argue that the scale of funds and the emotional vulnerability of those seeking help from faith‑based organisations make it necessary for greater oversight and accountability.

The situation highlights ongoing concerns in Nigeria — and across the world — about how faith leaders, social media influencers, and online ministries are held accountable for handling donations, representing personal conduct, and safeguarding the interests of the vulnerable individuals they serve.

Popular Pastor Agbala Gabriel Faces Fraud, Sexual Allegations

Related Topics:Agbala Gabriel fraud Misconduct pastor

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Five Sunnah Acts Muslims Should Observe on Eid al-Fitr

Published

6 hours ago

March 15, 2026

Trends Admin

Five Sunnah Acts Muslims Should Observe on Eid al-Fitr

Eid al-Fitr marks the conclusion of the blessed month of Ramadan for Muslims worldwide. After weeks of fasting, reflection, and devotion, Eid is a day of celebration, gratitude, and communal joy. Beyond festive meals, new clothing, and visits with family and friends, Eid carries significant religious meaning, with certain practices recommended by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to ensure the day is observed mindfully. These practices, known as Sunnah, guide Muslims in combining spirituality, gratitude, and social connection.

Here are five Sunnah acts recommended for Eid day, enhanced with additional insights from authentic Islamic sources:

1. Take a Bath (Ghusl) Before Eid Prayer

On Eid morning, it is Sunnah to perform Ghusl, a ritual bath, before heading out for the Eid prayer. This act of cleanliness symbolizes physical purification and spiritual readiness for the special day.

Islamic scholars note that just as Muslims prepare for Jumu’ah (Friday) prayers, Eid requires similar attention to personal hygiene. The Prophet ﷺ emphasized presenting oneself in a clean and pleasant state, reflecting respect for the day and the communal worship it entails.

Reference: Narrations in Sunan Abu Dawud and Sahih Muslim highlight the Prophet ﷺ’s practice of bathing before Eid prayers.

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2. Wear Clean or New Clothes

Another Sunnah practice is to wear clean and presentable clothes for Eid. While wearing new garments is recommended if financially feasible, it is not obligatory. The focus is on neatness, modesty, and expressing the joy of the occasion.

Dressing well for Eid symbolizes gratitude to Allah and reflects the celebratory nature of the day. Traditionally, Muslims would wear their best available clothing to the Eid prayer to honor the communal gathering and the blessings of the month.

3. Eat Before Eid Prayer (for Eid al-Fitr)

For Eid al-Fitr, it is Sunnah to eat a small meal before attending the Eid prayer. The Prophet ﷺ reportedly ate dates or a small portion of food before leaving home. This practice serves as a marker for the conclusion of Ramadan fasting and allows believers to begin the day in a state of nourishment and spiritual reflection.

It is important to note that for Eid al-Adha, the Sunnah differs: the Eid prayer is offered on an empty stomach, with the sacrificial feast taking place afterward.

4. Recite the Eid Takbeer

The Takbeer (Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar… La ilaha illa Allah, Allahu Akbar wa Lillah al-Hamd) is a declaration glorifying Allah, recited from the night before Eid until the conclusion of the Eid prayer.

Muslims often recite the Takbeer while traveling to the mosque or during personal devotion at home. It serves as a reminder of Allah’s greatness and reinforces the spiritual purpose behind the Eid celebrations.

Reference: Scholars in Fiqh al-Sunnah recommend the Takbeer for both Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, emphasizing its communal and spiritual significance.

5. Greet Others and Spread Joy

Eid is a time for strengthening bonds, kindness, and community cohesion. Muslims are encouraged to greet one another with phrases such as “Eid Mubarak” and to visit family, friends, and neighbours.

Sharing in the happiness of the day, giving gifts, and checking on vulnerable community members are all considered Sunnah practices that enhance the communal spirit and reflect the Prophet’s teachings on compassion and unity.

Reference: The Prophet ﷺ said: “The one who greets and shakes hands spreads peace and love among the community.” (Sunan Ibn Majah)

A Day of Gratitude and Reflection

Eid is more than festivity; it is a day of gratitude. Muslims thank Allah for granting the strength to complete Ramadan, for the blessings received, and for the opportunity to grow spiritually. Observing these Sunnah acts transforms Eid from a social celebration into a spiritually enriching day, balancing devotion, generosity, and community engagement.

By performing the Sunnah of bathing, wearing clean clothes, eating before prayer, reciting the Takbeer, and greeting others, Muslims begin Eid with mindfulness, gratitude, and a sense of shared joy.

Five Sunnah Acts Muslims Should Observe on Eid al-Fitr

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Ramadan Day 26: Understanding the Importance of Zakatul Fitr Before Eid

Published

6 hours ago

March 15, 2026

Trends Admin

Ramadan Day 26: Understanding the Importance of Zakatul Fitr Before Eid

As the holy month of Ramadan draws to a close, Muslims around the world prepare for one of the most important charitable obligations in Islam — Zakatul Fitr. This special charity is performed at the end of Ramadan and represents the spiritual and social completion of fasting.

Unlike other forms of charity, Zakatul Fitr is obligatory for every Muslim who has the financial means. Its purpose is not only to purify the fasting believer but also to ensure that the joy and blessings of Eid al-Fitr are shared with the less privileged in society.

Islam teaches that worship is not limited to personal devotion but must also reflect compassion toward others. Through Zakatul Fitr, the teachings of Ramadan are translated into real acts of generosity that uplift the poor and strengthen community bonds.

The obligation of Zakatul Fitr was established by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) as a purification for those who fast. A narration reported by Ibn Abbas states that the Prophet prescribed the charity as a means of cleansing the fasting person from idle talk and indecent speech while also serving as food for the poor.

This teaching highlights the dual essence of Zakatul Fitr — spiritual purification and social compassion.

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During the month of Ramadan, believers strive to maintain discipline, patience, and righteousness. However, human imperfection means that people may still fall into minor mistakes such as careless speech or impatience. Zakatul Fitr therefore acts as a form of spiritual cleansing that helps perfect the fast and compensate for these shortcomings.

Beyond spiritual purification, the charity plays a vital social role. Islam emphasizes that celebrations such as Eid al-Fitr should not exclude the poor or vulnerable members of society. By making Zakatul Fitr mandatory, the religion ensures that struggling families also have food and resources to celebrate the festival with dignity.

Traditionally, Zakatul Fitr is given in the form of staple foods commonly consumed in a community, such as rice, wheat, dates, barley, or maize. The prescribed amount is one ṣā‘, which scholars estimate to be roughly 2.5 to 3 kilograms of food per person.

The responsibility for paying Zakatul Fitr usually falls on the head of the household, who gives the charity on behalf of all dependents, including children. In this way, the entire family participates in an act of generosity that benefits those in need.

Timing is also an important aspect of the charity. Islamic scholars emphasize that Zakatul Fitr must be distributed before the Eid prayer, allowing the poor to prepare for the celebration. If it is given after the prayer, it may only count as ordinary charity rather than the special Ramadan obligation.

The essence of Zakatul Fitr lies in gratitude, purification, and compassion. After a month of fasting and spiritual reflection, Muslims are reminded that true worship should lead to kindness and generosity toward others.

Ultimately, Zakatul Fitr represents the final act that completes Ramadan. It purifies the fast, strengthens social solidarity, and spreads joy throughout the community as Muslims prepare to celebrate Eid al-Fitr.

Ramadan Day 26: Understanding the Importance of Zakatul Fitr Before Eid

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Lagos reintroduces monthly sanitation as waste, flood risks mount

Published

20 hours ago

March 14, 2026

Trends Admin

Lagos reintroduces monthly sanitation as waste, flood risks mount

The Lagos State Government has announced the return of the monthly environmental sanitation exercise, marking a revival of a once-familiar civic routine aimed at improving cleanliness and tackling mounting waste management challenges in the state.

The exercise will officially resume on Saturday, April 25, 2026, and will subsequently hold on the last Saturday of every month between 6:30am and 8:30am.

Residents across the state are expected to clean their surroundings, clear drainage channels in front of their homes and ensure proper disposal of waste during the exercise.

The state Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed the development in a statement on Saturday, urging Lagosians to see the initiative as a shared civic responsibility.

“I am pleased to inform all Lagosians that the monthly environmental sanitation exercise will resume effective Saturday, April 25, 2026, holding on the last Saturday of every month from 6:30am to 8:30am,” Wahab said.

“During this period, residents are enjoined to clean their surroundings, clear drainage channels in their frontages and dispose of waste properly as a civic responsibility.”

According to him, the exercise is part of the state government’s broader efforts to promote environmental hygiene and build a cleaner and flood-resilient city.

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“This exercise is a collective responsibility and a vital part of our commitment to a cleaner, healthier and flood-resilient Lagos. It shall be backed with the full enforcement weight of the Lagos State Government,” he added.

Wahab explained that the decision signals a return to a long-standing sanitation culture that once formed part of everyday life in the state.

He noted that prior to 2016, residents routinely dedicated time once a month to clean their neighbourhoods and maintain tidy surroundings.

“Once every month, we took our time to clean up our surroundings and then maintain them sparkling. However, for some years, we stopped it,” he said.

The commissioner observed that the absence of the exercise had contributed to growing environmental pressures, including indiscriminate refuse disposal and blocked drainage channels.

“Now, waste and environmental challenges have become an existential challenge to us as a state. It has taken us over a year of discussions to agree that it is time to reintroduce the monthly environmental sanitation,” he said.

Appealing for cooperation, Wahab urged residents to devote a few hours each month to environmental cleanliness, noting that many markets in the state already observe weekly sanitation exercises.

The monthly environmental sanitation exercise, which was previously observed between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. on the last Saturday of every month, was suspended in November 2016 following a court ruling that restricted the enforcement of movement bans during the exercise.

Its suspension later coincided with increasing waste management concerns across parts of the state, including clogged drainage systems and indiscriminate dumping of refuse.