Nigerian media personality, Toke Makinwa, has opened up about why she no longer pays tithes to churches.
In a heartfelt conversation with Chude Jideonwo, Toke shared her thoughts on tithing and the role of religion in people’s lives. She reflected on how religion can sometimes cause unintended harm, mentioning “post-traumatic church syndrome” as one of the negative effects it has had on individuals.
Toke Makinwa questioned the practice of giving money to already wealthy institutions while many people struggle to meet basic needs. Instead, she now chooses to support hospitals, maternity wards, and individuals with urgent financial challenges.
She explained, “I started thinking—if someone tells me they need money to pay rent, why should I give it to a building that’s already rich? I’d rather give my tithe to strangers who genuinely need help. The church is built. The pastors have money. Let’s help the people the church cannot reach.”
To emphasize her point, Toke recalled a time when she gave her entire earnings from a brand endorsement deal to her church, hoping for blessings. However, her perspective has since changed.
“Seven years ago, I didn’t touch a single naira from an endorsement deal—I gave it all to the church. Now, I prefer to give where it directly helps someone in need,” she said.
Toke Makinwa stressed that helping others in need should take priority over fulfilling routine religious obligations. She believes true impact happens when resources are directed to those who cannot afford basic necessities like food or healthcare.
