The Northern chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria has cautioned Christians against engaging in abusive or hostile religious debates, especially on social media.

The warning was issued in a statement on Wednesday in Kaduna by the association’s chairman, Joseph Hayab, who urged believers, particularly youths and clergy, to exercise restraint amid rising online religious tensions.

Hayab said many online arguments presented as defending the faith are “vain and unprofitable,” stressing that Christians are not called to insult or attack others in the name of religion.

He stated that believers cannot “fight for God,” adding that such actions contradict biblical teachings and often lead to division, strife, and ungodliness.

Citing scriptures such as Titus 3:9 and 2 Timothy 2:23, he warned Christians to avoid provocative debates and unnecessary confrontations, even when their beliefs are criticised.

The cleric emphasised that God is omnipotent and does not require human defence through insults or aggression, adding that emotional reactions weaken the moral message of Christianity.

He further noted that abusive exchanges in the name of defending the faith misrepresent Christian values and diminish the message of love and peace.

The association urged Christians to focus on constructive engagement and avoid contributing to rising religious tensions on social media platforms in Nigeria.