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Joshua Bamiloye has responded to criticism directed at Mount Zion Film Productions over claims that its movies portray Yoruba spirituality in a negative light.
The gospel singer addressed the issue on social media following the announcement that Agbara Nla, one of the ministry’s most celebrated productions, will return to cinemas more than 30 years after its initial release.
The debate began after a social media user questioned Mount Zion’s portrayal of traditional beliefs in many of its films.
According to the critic, productions from the Christian film ministry have repeatedly presented Yoruba spirituality as evil while promoting Christianity as the superior alternative.
The post argued that modern audiences are becoming more informed and are now challenging narratives that they believe unfairly represent indigenous traditions.
In response, Joshua dismissed the accusation, insisting that Mount Zion has never set out to attack Yoruba culture. He explained that the ministry appreciates and incorporates various elements of Yoruba heritage into its productions, including language, customs, proverbs, and respect for traditional institutions.
To support his argument, Joshua pointed to Abejoye, one of Mount Zion’s most popular characters. He noted that the character embraced Christianity without abandoning his Yoruba identity, continuing to speak the language fluently and uphold cultural values. According to him, the films focus on spiritual transformation rather than cultural rejection.
Joshua also challenged the suggestion that Mount Zion frames its stories as a battle between Yoruba spirituality and Christianity.
He maintained that the ministry’s message has always centred on the struggle between good and evil, regardless of location, ethnicity, or cultural background. In his view, darkness is not tied to any particular people or tradition but is a universal theme explored in Christian storytelling.
Addressing another claim that the organisation built its reputation by portraying traditional religion negatively, Joshua argued that such an assessment overlooks the breadth of Mount Zion’s work.
He stated that only a small portion of the ministry’s extensive catalogue is set within traditional religious contexts, while many other productions explore different social and spiritual themes.
He further encouraged critics to watch the films in their entirety before reaching conclusions about their messages. According to him, isolated scenes or assumptions can create misconceptions about the overall purpose of the stories being told.
The discussion comes as anticipation grows for Agbara Nla: The Return, a new instalment of the classic film franchise. The original movie became widely known among Christian audiences in the early 1990s and remains one of Mount Zion’s most recognised productions.
The upcoming sequel is scheduled for release in cinemas across Nigeria on October 1, 2026. The project is being produced through a collaboration involving Mount Zion Film Productions, Sozo Films, and virtual cinema platform Circuits.
Directed by Joshua Bamiloye and Damilola Bamiloye, the film is expected to introduce the iconic story to a new generation of viewers while reconnecting longtime fans with a familiar classic.
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