Toke Makinwa Opens Up About Her Decision to Stop Paying Tithe to Churches
Media mogul and mother of one, Toke Makinwa, has publicly shared her reasons for no longer paying tithe to churches, citing personal experiences and a shift in her approach to charitable giving. In a recent interview with Chude, she detailed the emotional and spiritual journey that led to this significant change in her life.
A Personal Revelation After a Major Sacrifice
Makinwa revealed that about seven years ago, she made a profound sacrifice by handing over 100% of a brand endorsement deal to her church without keeping a single naira for herself. At the time, she believed this act would bring financial blessings, but over the years, she began to question the effectiveness and impact of such donations within religious institutions.
"Seven years ago, I didn't touch one naira from an endorsement deal; I carried it all into the church," she stated. "Now, I give where it directly helps someone in need. Giving should be based on personal conviction."
Addressing the Disconnect in Religious Giving
The media personality expressed concerns about what she described as a disconnect between the substantial funds churches receive and the ongoing struggles faced by many congregants. She pointed out that numerous church members continue to battle issues such as rent arrears, hospital bills, and feeding challenges, yet they faithfully contribute their tithes.
"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?" Makinwa questioned. "I would rather give my tithe to strangers who tell me their actual needs."
Shifting Focus to Direct Impact and Personal Conviction
Makinwa explained that her giving is now guided by personal conviction rather than pressure, tradition, or expectations from religious institutions. She has redirected her charitable efforts towards causes where she can witness the direct impact, including hospitals, maternity wards, widows, and strangers with pressing needs.
She emphasized that many churches are already well-established, and pastors often enjoy financial comfort, whereas the real need lies among individuals who cannot afford basic necessities like medical care or daily expenses. This perspective has led her to prioritize helping those in immediate distress over institutional donations.
Encouraging Thoughtful and Impactful Giving
In her interview, Makinwa encouraged others to think carefully about how they support charitable causes and to focus on making a tangible difference in people's lives. She highlighted the importance of aligning giving with personal values and ensuring that contributions address genuine needs rather than perpetuating systemic issues within religious spaces.
Her story serves as a reminder of the evolving nature of faith and philanthropy, urging individuals to reflect on their own practices and consider alternative ways to contribute to society meaningfully.
