Toke Makinwa Explains Why She Stopped Paying Tithes to Churches
Media personality Toke Makinwa has revealed that she no longer pays tithes to churches, explaining that she now prefers to channel her financial support directly to individuals and institutions in urgent need.
Speaking during a conversation with media entrepreneur Chude Jideonwo, Makinwa questioned the practice of donating to religious institutions she believes are already financially stable.
“I kinda stopped paying tithes to the church because all the churches I know are rich, and I decided that I’m not doing that anymore,” she said.
According to her, the decision came after reflecting on the growing wealth of churches while many individuals struggle to afford basic necessities. She noted that she would rather support hospitals, maternity wards, and people facing urgent financial challenges.
“If I have money and someone tells me they need it to pay rent, why should I pass it into a building that’s already rich? I would rather give my tithe to strangers who tell me their actual needs,” she stated.
Makinwa further argued that many churches frequently request donations for building projects despite already possessing substantial resources.
“Every church is building. Every Sunday, there’s a building fund envelope. You guys have so much money and it’s not taxed. It’s a business, if we are going to be real. Because if that pastor dies today, either his wife or his child becomes the next pastor,” she said.
During the discussion, Jideonwo also raised concerns about what he described as unintended harm caused by certain religious practices, including what he termed “post-traumatic church syndrome.”
Reflecting on her personal journey, Makinwa disclosed that a decade ago she handed over entire endorsement earnings to her church in pursuit of blessings.
“Ten years ago, I didn’t touch one naira from an endorsement deal; I carried it all into the church. Now, I give where it directly helps someone in need,” she said.
Her comments have reignited conversations about tithing, religious accountability, and personal philanthropy in Nigeria’s faith-driven society. Read More
