By Segun Adebayo
Popular Nigerian pastor and relationship coach, Kingsley Okonkwo, has come under criticism on social media over his position that getting a tattoo is not a sin, with some Christians challenging his interpretation of the Bible.
Okonkwo, the founder and lead pastor of David Christian Centre, made the assertion while responding to criticism over his decision to get a tattoo bearing a reference to John 3:16.
“Tattoos have always been part of human culture,” the cleric said.
“There’s no scripture that says getting a tattoo is a sin,” he added, insisting that the practice should not automatically be classified as sinful simply because of personal convictions or interpretations.
His comments drew strong objections from some Christians who pointed to Leviticus 19:28 as a direct biblical reference to tattooing.
The passage states: “Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you.”
Some critics on social media quoted the passage while questioning how the pastor could maintain that there is no scriptural basis for condemning tattoos.
One reaction cited by critics was Leviticus 19:28 and argued that the Bible specifically warns against putting tattoo marks on the body.
Critics questioned whether a pastor should endorse a practice they view as biblically forbidden.
Conversely, defenders rallied behind Okonkwo, supporting his right to interpret Scripture differently and viewing his tattoo as a personal expression of faith.
Reports on the earlier controversy over his tattoo showed that opinions were divided between critics and supporters.
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