A fresh directive issued by the Sharon Parish of the Celestial Church of Christ in Ikorodu, Lagos State, has sparked disagreements between leaders and worshippers over acceptable dress codes in church. The parish issued a notice placing restrictions on several modern fashion items and hairstyles within the place of worship.
According to Punch, the church prohibited female congregants from wearing trousers, short gowns, transparent garments, nose rings, multiple earrings, anklets, heavy makeup, and long artificial nails. The directive also restricted men from wearing earrings, braiding their hair, and putting on net, mesh, or fishnet outfits. The church urged members to abide by the rules so their dressing would reflect reverence and modesty.
The announcement has triggered strong reactions both within the congregation and across social media platforms. Speaking on the development, a worshipper in Ikorodu, Tolu Ajila, rejected the restrictions, stating that faith should focus on the condition of a worshipper's heart rather than physical appearance. She questioned how practical such rules are, wondering if the church would expect members not to wear trousers during compulsory programmes like the national youth service.
Another church member in Ikorodu, who requested anonymity, noted that such directives are not entirely new to the white-garment church. The member argued that worshippers should be free to maintain their appearance and look good while still respecting religious standards, noting that overseas branches do not enforce such strict limitations.
Online commentators also shared conflicting views on social media. An X user identified as Kayode Philips welcomed the restrictions, expressing concern over braided hair on men and piercings among worshippers. Another user, Olamide, recalled being politely asked to remove her artificial nails or exit during her first visit. Others, such as Odigbo Daniel, argued that the bans are merely human rules rather than biblical requirements.
Ministers within the church have continued to back the restrictions as necessary for maintaining order and spiritual values. Evangelist Emmanuel Babatunde of CCC Orisun Parish in Ikorodu stated that the measures are needed because certain modern fashion styles contradict church principles, stressing that believers must avoid indecent appearances in holy spaces.
