Apostle Arome Osayi has sparked widespread reactions on social media after making a controversial statement suggesting that anyone who has reached the age of 21 without speaking in tongues continuously for six hours is living a “joke.”
The comment, delivered during a sermon, has since gone viral, drawing mixed responses from Nigerians who either found it thought-provoking, extreme, or outright humorous.
Apostle Osayi’s statement stirs controversy
In his message, the popular cleric emphasized the importance of intense spiritual devotion, particularly the act of speaking in tongues, which he described as a key indicator of spiritual maturity and seriousness in one’s walk with God.
According to him, young Christians who fail to invest deeply in spiritual exercises such as prolonged prayer and speaking in tongues risk falling short of their divine purpose and destiny.
He stressed that speaking in tongues helps believers build spiritual capacity, receive divine direction, and align properly with God’s plan for their lives, insisting that casual or inconsistent spirituality is insufficient in today’s world.
The statement immediately triggered debates online, with many questioning whether spiritual practices should be used as a benchmark for judging a person’s life, success, or value.
While some supporters defended the apostle, saying his words were meant to provoke spiritual awakening and discipline, critics argued that the remark could discourage young people and misrepresent the essence of faith.
Several users pointed out that speaking in tongues is traditionally understood as a form of prayer and communion with God, not a universal measure of intelligence, destiny, or personal achievement.
Social media reactions:
@omolyaake_shabz: “So speaking in tongues now guarantees making it in life??? Naaah this Pastor is actually a joke! I’m sorry God.”
@Tinaabold: “Ndi China are progressing. Pastors are opening their mouths to talk anyhow because offerings and tithes sustain them.”
@SamuelZiyodele: “Speaking in tongues is not the license to heaven.”
@priscanall: “21 without other tongues? Your destiny na pure comedy show! Apostle don roast everybody.”
@FhisayoGraphics: “No wonder my life be like this.”
Watch the video below…
“If you are up to 21 years old and you never Spoke in tongues straight for 6 hours, Your life is a J0ke.” – Apostle Arome Osayi pic.twitter.com/wyjF74D0Mv
— Oyindamola🙄 (@dammiedammie35) January 6, 2026