“Ignorance Is Not Godly” – Singer Seyi Shay Criticizes Use Of Colonial-Era Hymns In Churches

Nigerian music star Seyi Shay is sparking a candid discussion about church music choices and their impact.

In an eye-opening Instagram story, she shared why she stopped attending her former church—not due to doctrine or conflict, but because of the songs being sung.

She revealed that a church leader insisted the congregation abandon contemporary gospel songs in favor of only hymns and scripture-based singing.

Her response?
“I stopped going to that church. PERIODT.”

And here’s why.

The singer questioned how anyone could feel “blessed and happy” singing hymns that were originally written by slave owners and forced on enslaved Africans during torture and dehumanization.

“Makes no sense,” she wrote. “Do your research! Ignorance is NOT Godly!”

She explained that while not all hymns have dark origins, many do, adding, “In some cases, you’re better off creating your own praise and worship songs based on scripture if that’s your preference.”

While traditional hymns remain dear to many Christians, others share Seyi Shay’s call for greater awareness, context, and spiritual freedom in worship music choices.