Emmanuel Iren, the lead pastor of Celebration Church International, has delivered a strong response to critics who have questioned his silence on certain national issues.

Pastor Emmanuel Iren, in a statement shared across his social media platforms, addressed rising criticism over his silence on national issues. He pushed back against the growing expectation that religious leaders must always comment publicly—especially on social media—on every political or social matter.

Describing such pressure as driven by performative outrage, Pastor Iren defended both his stance and his ministry’s quiet but impactful work.

He pointed to several humanitarian efforts by Celebration Church International in Plateau State, including sponsoring children’s education for five years, funding medical treatment for a man who lost his arm to bandits, providing clothing to underserved villages, assisting families in escaping violent attacks, and partnering with local missionaries on the ground.

“All of these without noise or paparazzi,” he said, emphasising that his team acts from compassion, not clout-chasing. “Like people who actually care and not to ‘score points’ in the public eye.”

Pastor Emmanuel Iren’s decision to stay silent on some trending issues has stirred criticism in today’s world, where many interpret silence as complicity. A number of online users argue that public figures, like him, have a responsibility to consistently comment on societal matters.

“Except you are a member of my church, I don’t owe you any accountability,” he said bluntly. 

“You do not tell me when or how to speak up. I do not hold a public office. Maybe holding the leaders who do accountable will be a better idea.”

His main point was straightforward: pastoring is a covenantal responsibility, not a political one. If you're not a member of his church, you're not entitled to behind-the-scenes access or explanations.