In Nigeria, amidst economic hardship, promises of instant miracles can be alluring. However, some prayer groups may be dangerous cults disguised as churches, using desperation for exploitation.
The recent disappearance of fashion entrepreneur Ejiro, who became involved with a controversial Instagram prayer group, highlights this concern. She reportedly closed her business, sold her possessions, and vanished, raising questions about the nature of these groups.
What is a Religious Cult?
Cults often exhibit extreme beliefs, centered on a leader or distorted truth, employing manipulation, isolation, and emotional control through fear and guilt. They may appear religious, quote scripture, and even claim miracles.
Red Flags of Religious Cults or Scam Prayer Groups:
- Isolation: Encouraging cutting ties with family and questioning outsiders.
- Financial Pressure: Urging members to quit jobs/businesses or sell possessions for "kingdom investment."
- Authoritarian Leadership: Unquestionable leader with no financial transparency.
- Fear-Based Teaching: Constant emphasis on doom, conspiracies, and persecution.
- Discouraging Doubt: Labeling questions as rebellion or backsliding.
- Shifting Righteousness: Constant changes in rules leading to guilt.
- Demonizing Leavers: Portraying those who leave as cursed or punished.
- Exclusive Truth Claims: Leader claiming sole access to God's truth.
Cults don't always fit stereotypes; they can have appealing online presences and use scripture fluently. They thrive on desperation, obedience, and fear.
If a group feels wrong, asks you to abandon logic or family, question whether it's genuine faith or disguised control.
