Nigerian comedian Ayo Makun, popularly known as AY, has opened up about why he stopped attending church for a period, saying it was not because he lost his faith in God but because of the public scrutiny surrounding his personal life.

AY explained that after negative stories about him circulated online, he became uncomfortable with the thought of being judged or whispered about whenever he attended church. As a result, he chose to worship online occasionally instead.

The comedian said he later found another church where he felt genuinely welcomed and believed he had finally found a place to call home. However, he claimed he was later removed from an upcoming church programme after concerns were raised about how the public might perceive his involvement.

According to AY, the experience made him question whether public opinion had become more important than a person’s relationship with God.

He stressed that he was not criticising pastors or asking people to ignore the allegations against him. Rather, he questioned whether the church should be a place where people can find truth, grace, and restoration regardless of the challenges they are facing.

“I still believe in Jesus Christ as a Christian,” AY said, while citing Matthew 11:28 and asking, “Who is the church really for?”