A recent sermon by a prominent bishop has ignited a fiery conversation across social media platforms in Nigeria, centering on appropriate attire and leadership judgement within the church.
Sermon Sparks Online Debate
COGIC Bishop Patrick Wooden is at the center of a growing controversy following comments he made from the pulpit about fellow pastor, Jamal Bryant. The issue arose from Bishop Wooden's recollection of watching a service where Pastor Bryant introduced his wife to the congregation.
According to Bishop Wooden, the wife's attire during the presentation was a black-and-flesh coloured outfit that created an optical illusion, making it appear as though she had nothing on underneath. The bishop stated that this immediate visual raised serious questions about decency and judgement in a worship setting.
Focus on Husband's Decision, Not Wife's Choice
Bishop Wooden was careful to direct his criticism specifically at the husband's role in the situation. He repeatedly clarified that his problem was not with the woman who wore the dress, but with the man who chose to present his wife in that manner to the church audience.
The bishop revealed that he later learned the preacher had defended the outfit, explaining that he personally purchased the dress and implying that critics simply had not "been anywhere." Wooden found this justification even more troubling than the initial act.
Strong Language Draws Widespread Attention
It was Bishop Wooden's choice of words during his explanation that captured significant online attention. He stated that the overall presentation made the woman appear like "a two dollar wh*re," but quickly followed up by clarifying he was not labeling her as such. He insisted he was describing how the moment was perceived by viewers, and reiterated that the detail about buying the dress came from the preacher himself.
The bishop further questioned what kind of environments or influences would lead a pastor to believe such a presentation was acceptable. He emphatically stated that he had no personal interest in frequenting places that would shape that type of thinking.
The sermon, shared widely on platforms like Instagram by blogs such as Linda Ikeji's on January 6, 2026, continues to fuel discussions about modesty, pastoral responsibility, and public perception within Nigeria's vibrant Christian community.
