Veteran Nollywood actor Yemi Solade has revealed why he has stayed away from church services for over a decade, citing personal experiences that clashed with his career and peace of mind.
Speaking on the Honest Bunch Podcast, Solade explained that the turning point came in 2013 when a pastor at his former church instructed him to stop accepting acting jobs scheduled on Sundays.
Clash Between Faith and Profession
The actor said the directive left him uncomfortable, as it directly interfered with his livelihood.
“If you see me in a church, it’s probably because we’re filming. Back in 2013, I went to church with my wife, and the pastor told me not to take jobs on Sundays. That same work he wanted me to avoid is what puts money in my pocket and allows me to give offerings. That was when I decided to stop,” he said.
Finding Peace Outside Church Walls
Solade dismissed the notion that life would take a downturn without church attendance, stressing that his life has remained stable and even more peaceful since he stopped regular worship.
“A notion that if you don’t attend church, one’s life will nosedive, I have not seen anything change. Rather, I have peace, I do well, because everyday of my life when I was going to church, I got messages, all sorts of disturbances,” he added.
According to him, stepping back from church activities has allowed him to focus better on his family and career without the pressures of committees and constant programs.
Not a Rejection of Faith
The 64-year-old actor emphasized that his decision was not a rejection of God but a conscious move to avoid unhealthy pressures that hinder productivity and personal growth.
