A faith-based organisation in Abuja, the Holiness Revival Movement Worldwide, has expelled a newly married woman following a prolonged marital conflict that began shortly after her wedding.
The decision was reportedly announced during a public church service by the ministry’s international director, Paul Rika, after months of counselling sessions failed to resolve tensions between the couple.
Marriage Followed by Immediate Strain
The couple, identified as Isaac and Oyiza, formalised their union in September 2025 after completing both traditional and court marriage rites.
However, according to reports, issues surfaced almost immediately. The wife allegedly expressed that she did not feel emotionally connected to her husband and was uncomfortable with physical intimacy.
The husband was said to have escalated the matter to family members and church leaders when the situation did not improve, seeking mediation and spiritual guidance to stabilise the marriage.
Counselling Efforts and Expulsion
Multiple counselling sessions were reportedly conducted across different locations, but no resolution was reached.
In a video that later circulated online, Rev. Paul Rika announced the woman’s expulsion from the church, citing spiritual concerns and alleged misconduct. The public nature of the pronouncement, as well as the language used, has drawn significant criticism.
Public Reactions and Broader Debate
The development has sparked conversations on several sensitive issues:
- Consent within marriage
- The role of religious institutions in marital disputes
- Mental and emotional health in newly formed unions
- Public shaming versus private mediation
Rights advocates argue that emotional disconnect and reluctance toward intimacy may require professional psychological support rather than disciplinary action. Others believe religious institutions have internal codes of conduct that members voluntarily agree to uphold.
The incident continues to generate debate across social media and faith communities, highlighting the complex intersection of religion, personal autonomy, and mental health in contemporary Nigerian society.
Published by Ejoh Caleb
