Legendary Juju musician Sir Shina Peters has publicly responded to clergyman Matthew Ashimolowo, dismissing recent remarks about him as false and misleading.
The controversy arose from a sermon delivered by Ashimolowo, senior pastor of Kingsway International Christian Centre, where he contrasted Peters’ financial choices with those of Zenith Bank Chairman Jim Ovia in the early 1990s. According to Ashimolowo, both men once had access to similar resources, but their paths diverged significantly. He stated, “Shina Peters, N20 million, built a house. Jim Ovia, N20 million, started a bank. One man is now fixing a leaky roof and broken doors. The other? I go to Rwanda, Zenith everywhere. Ghana, Zenith everywhere. Delay your gratification, and God will lift you.”
Responding via his Instagram story, Peters addressed the sermon directly, emphasizing his role as a bishop and his commitment to setting a positive example for the body of Christ. He made it clear that he would not retaliate verbally or legally despite what he described as false and derogatory statements.
“For the sake of the legacy of our Creator and Christ Jesus, as well as esteemed men of God like St Moses Orimolade Tunolase, I will not speak ill of you or take legal action,” Peters wrote.
He also reflected on the blessings he has received throughout his life, stressing that comparison with others matters less than using one’s gifts to inspire and uplift. “God has really blessed me beyond words; you can’t even begin to imagine the blessings of God upon my life all these decades. People close to me know what I’m talking about. God, being a loving Father, has also blessed you. How we use our blessings to set good examples for people is what matters now,” Peters added.
The musician’s statement underscores a commitment to humility, legacy, and the responsible use of success, highlighting a philosophy that transcends mere material comparison.
