In a recent church service, Nigerian clergyman Pastor Esiri voiced strong concerns over the growing influence of social media personalities on the nation's youth, linking their online habits to a decline in academic performance.
Addressing his congregation, Pastor Esiri specifically called out a popular figure known as Peller, alleging that many young people idolize him and spend excessive time following his lifestyle on social media platforms.
According to the pastor, Peller, who often appears online with a woman he is not married to, is setting what he described as a "poor example" for impressionable followers. Esiri argued that instead of dedicating time to their studies, especially in preparation for critical examinations like the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exams, many youths waste entire days scrolling through Peller’s social media content.
“You know who’s mentoring the youth now? It’s one guy who calls himself Peller,” Pastor Esiri said during his sermon. “Young people sit on his page from morning till night. He’s out there parading himself with a woman he isn’t married to, engaging in all kinds of questionable activities. And society my own generation thinks this behavior is normal. How can these kids pass JAMB? They can’t.”
The pastor’s comments have sparked a mix of reactions online and within religious circles. While some have applauded him for calling out what they see as a moral decline, others argue that the blame for poor academic outcomes cannot be placed solely on social media or specific influencers.
Critics have also pointed out that youth engagement with digital platforms is often driven by a lack of alternative mentorship, recreational options, or meaningful educational reform issues that extend beyond any single influencer’s impact.
Broader Implications
Pastor Esiri’s remarks touch on a wider debate about the role of digital culture in shaping youth behavior. As social media continues to dominate daily life, particularly among teenagers and young adults, conversations around responsibility, mentorship, and the consequences of idolizing online figures have become increasingly relevant.
Whether or not one agrees with the pastor’s views, his comments serve as a reminder of the influence that public figures whether entertainers, influencers, or religious leaders can have on shaping values and priorities, especially among Nigeria’s next generation.
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