“She made people burn their children alive” – Bloody Civilian calls out Pastor Helen Ukpabio on 60th birthday

 In recent days, Helen Ukpabio, the founder of the Liberty Foundation Gospel Ministries in Nigeria, has found herself at the epicenter of a social media storm. The controversy was ignited by a birthday tweet celebrating her 60th year, which, rather than being a mere acknowledgment of age, sparked a fierce online reaction due to her longstanding association with witchcraft accusations against children.

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Helen Ukpabio isn't a new name in Nigeria's religious landscape. For years, she has been a polarizing figure, known for her evangelistic work which has often included teachings on demonic possession and witchcraft, particularly targeting children. Her ministry, based in Calabar, Cross River State, has expanded significantly across West Africa, but it's her methods and the consequences thereof that have brought her under scrutiny.

Ukpabio's teachings suggest that certain behaviors in children, like crying at night or being feverish, could indicate possession by witchcraft spirits. This belief has led to widespread fear, resulting in numerous cases of children being accused, abused, or abandoned by their families. Her influence has extended beyond the pulpit through her production of films like "End of the Wicked," where child actors partake in scenes depicting witchcraft, further embedding these beliefs into the cultural consciousness.

The recent social media uproar began when a tweet celebrating Ukpabio's birthday drew attention not just for the occasion but for the controversy it represents. Critics on platforms like X (formerly known as Twitter) have not held back, with many voicing their outrage over the impact of her teachings. The accusations are grave: that she has been instrumental in fostering an environment where child abuse is justified under the guise of religious deliverance.

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In a twist that added fuel to the fire, an X user claiming to be Ukpabio's daughter responded to the criticism with threats of legal action against those who attacked her mother's character or practices. This move has been seen by some as an attempt to stifle free speech and by others as a desperate defense of family honor. 

The response from the public has been both poignant and fierce. Many Nigerian netizens, particularly those who remember or have experienced the repercussions of Ukpabio's teachings, have shared personal stories. These narratives paint a grim picture of lives altered or, in some tragic cases, lost due to unwarranted witchcraft accusations. The stories underline a broader societal issue where superstition intersects with child welfare, often with devastating outcomes.

This incident has reignited discussions on several fronts:

Freedom of Religion vs. Child Rights: There's a delicate balance between the freedom to practice one's religion and ensuring the protection of children from harm. Ukpabio's case exemplifies the tension when religious doctrines are interpreted in ways that directly or indirectly lead to abuse.

Legal and Ethical Implications: The threat of legal action has brought into question the limits of legal recourse when it comes to defending one's reputation versus addressing potentially harmful religious practices. Critics argue that the legal system should not be used to protect against criticism when the core issues involve child welfare.

Cultural and Religious Influence: Ukpabio's ministry highlights how deeply religious leaders can influence cultural beliefs and practices. Her teachings have not only affected individual families but have had a ripple effect on communities, where fear of witchcraft leads to ostracization rather than support.

The Role of Social Media: Platforms like X have become battlegrounds for public discourse, where voices can amplify issues that might otherwise remain in the shadows. This incident shows how social media can both expose and escalate controversies, pushing for accountability or sometimes leading to further polarization.

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Helen Ukpabio's case is a stark reminder of the power of religious rhetoric and the responsibilities that come with it. As the debate rages on, it opens up a necessary dialogue on how society should navigate the intersection of faith, cultural beliefs, and human rights, especially when the vulnerable are at risk.