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Former Big Brother Naija housemate Pere Egbi has ignited intense reactions across social media after expressing his views on homosexuality, stating that identifying as gay, lesbian, or transgender goes against biblical teachings and should be regarded as a sin.
The reality TV star made the comments while responding to a post by American cleric Dr. Kevin M. Young on X, formerly known as Twitter. In his original message, the pastor argued that being part of the LGBTQ+ community is not sinful and does not require repentance, stressing that sexual orientation is not a personal choice and cannot be altered.
Dr. Young wrote: “Being LGBTQ+ isn’t a sin, nor does the Bible ever say it is. You cannot ‘repent’ of your sexual orientation because you did not choose it, nor can you change it. God loves you the way God themself created you.”
The post quickly gained traction, drawing widespread attention and prompting reactions from users across different backgrounds, including Pere, who openly disagreed with the cleric’s stance.
In a firm rebuttal, Pere insisted that homosexuality, like other moral transgressions, is considered sinful according to Christian doctrine. While acknowledging that such acts are not more sinful than others, he maintained that they still fall outside what the Bible prescribes as acceptable conduct.
“Being LGBTQ+ is a sin as other sins. It’s not a greater sin nor is it a lesser sin,” Pere wrote. “God did not create a man for another man nor a woman for another woman. He didn’t make a man to be with other men.”
His response instantly triggered a heated debate online, with users expressing sharply divided opinions. While some applauded him for standing by his religious convictions, others criticised his remarks, describing them as intolerant and dismissive of individual identity and personal freedom.
Supporters of Pere argued that he merely expressed his faith-based beliefs, noting that religious freedom allows individuals to interpret scripture according to their convictions. Many insisted that Christians should not be compelled to accept practices that contradict their understanding of biblical teachings.
On the other hand, critics maintained that such statements promote stigma, discrimination, and emotional harm, especially toward LGBTQ+ individuals who already face widespread marginalisation. Several commentators stressed that public figures should be more sensitive when addressing topics related to sexuality and identity, given their influence on young and impressionable audiences.
Further elaborating on his position, Pere referenced the biblical account of Sodom and Gomorrah, suggesting that the destruction of the ancient cities was linked to immoral practices, which he implied included homosexual behaviour. His interpretation added another layer to the debate, with scholars and religious commentators offering varying explanations of the controversial scripture.
The discussion also reopened broader conversations around the intersection of religion, human rights, and evolving social values. Many pointed out that interpretations of biblical texts have shifted over time, while others insisted that core religious principles should remain unchanged regardless of modern societal trends.
Pere, who is known for his outspoken nature and strong opinions, has previously sparked debates on social and political matters. Since leaving the Big Brother Naija house, he has built a reputation for candid commentary, often weighing in on issues that generate public discourse.
As reactions continue to pour in, the controversy underscores the ongoing tension between faith-based beliefs and the growing global push for LGBTQ+ acceptance and inclusion. The debate highlights the challenges faced by societies attempting to balance deeply rooted religious convictions with contemporary conversations around identity, equality, and personal freedom.
While neither Pere nor Dr. Young has issued further statements since the exchange went viral, the incident has once again brought the topic of sexuality, religion, and tolerance into the public spotlight, sparking renewed calls for respectful dialogue and understanding across differing perspectives.
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