LAGOS.
Nigerian singer Korede Bello sparked conversations nationwide on Wednesday after releasing a reflective Instagram video insisting that Jesus Christ is no longer on the cross, and urging Christians to focus on the risen Lord.
In the video, the “Godwin” hitmaker challenged what he called “fixation” on crucifixion and pointed to Christ’s resurrection and ascension as the core of Christian identity.
“Before you crucify me, know that I am a Christian, and Christ has already died for me,” Bello said, speaking directly to his followers. “He has already been crucified for me, so there’s no need for that.”
Singer Reflects on Faith and Identity
Bello said his insights came during a personal moment of prayer when he realised the symbolic nature of the cross in Christian belief.
“I was praying and looking at the cross when it hit me, He’s no longer on it,” he said. “When I think of Jesus, I think of my identity as seated right next to the Father.”
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The singer stressed that his message was not meant to diminish the importance of the cross, but to highlight the victory of the resurrected Christ.
“Am I saying the cross isn’t important? No,” he added. But, he insisted that believers should not be stuck reliving Christ’s suffering when Christian faith rests on resurrection and life.
From Islam to Christianity
In the video, Bello also shared that he was born into Islam and later embraced Christianity after independently studying the Bible.
“I was not born a Christian. I was born a Muslim. I had to start with the Bible myself — not for religious reasons, but for personal reasons,” he said, underscoring that his faith journey was deeply personal and self-motivated.
Reactions and Broader Message
Reactions on social media were mixed. Some fans praised his transparency. “You’re fearless in your faith,” one X user wrote. Others questioned his framing, saying the cross remains a central Christian symbol.
Bello pushed back gently, urging believers to live their faith through love and meaningful action.
“Our faith and identity are in the Christ who has ascended and is right next to the Father,” he said. “People will know you’re my followers by the love you have for each other.”
He also highlighted communion as the true act of remembrance; a way to honour Christ’s sacrifice without remaining fixated on the cross.
