“Fear is the greatest challenge of the Yoruba race, unlike the Igbos,” says Pastor Bolaji Idowu

Lagos pastor Bolaji Idowu has sparked discussion online after stating that fear is the major problem facing the Yoruba race. Speaking during a recent sermon, Pastor Idowu addressed his congregation directly, saying, “There is a problem with the Yoruba race. Even the ones that are 48 years old. There is a problem with your race and it is called fear. Life bows for the courageous. Life works against the fearful.”

He went on to compare the Yoruba to the Igbo, praising the latter group for their fearlessness and entrepreneurial spirit. “That is why I love the Igbos. They are fearless. There is no country in this world you will not see an Igbo man there. Nobody can do anything significant in life because of fear. One of the reasons people never emerge or go forward is because of fear and fear will lead to self-doubt. You would begin to doubt yourself,” he said.

Pastor Idowu urged young people to confront fear early in life so they can grow and succeed. His comments have generated reactions on social media, with many agreeing and others criticizing the generalization.