In a recent candid conversation, media personality Toke Makinwa opened up about her evolving perspective on tithing and the role of the church in people’s lives. She reflected on the unintended harm religion can sometimes cause, noting the concept of “post-traumatic church syndrome” the damage done to people by religious institutions and leaders.
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Toke explained that while churches grow wealthy, many individuals still struggle with basic needs. “I started thinking, if I have money and someone tells me they need it to pay rent, why should I pass it into a building that’s already rich?”
She described how she shifted her approach, choosing instead to support hospitals, maternity wards, and direct personal needs. “I would rather give my tithe to strangers who tell me their actual needs. The church is built. The pastors have money. Let’s help people the church cannot reach,” she said.
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Toke also shared her personal history, revealing that she once gave brand endorsements directly to her church with the hope of financial blessing, but over time she chose a different path. “Seven years ago, I didn’t touch one naira from an endorsement deal; I carried it all into the church. Now, I give where it directly helps someone in need,” she explained.
Toke encourages personal conviction in giving, stressing that helping others should take priority over merely following tradition.
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