If we had a coin for every time someone claimed “God called me,” we’d all be rich by now.

In a country plagued by poverty and hardship, promises of instant miracles and supernatural wealth are a powerful lure. And many so-called prophets and pastors have learned how to use this desperation as a business model.

They assure you that it’s not juju. You’re praying. You’re fasting. You’re doing “the Christian thing.” So it must be right. But what if it’s not?

The truth is, some of these prayer groups are not churches, they’re cults. Dangerous ones at that. Recently, the disappearance of fashion entrepreneur Ejiro sparked nationwide concern. After getting involved with a controversial Instagram prayer group, she reportedly shut down her thriving business, sold all her possessions, and vanished without a trace.

READ IT ALL HERE: Panic as stylist goes missing after joining mysterious prayer group

Ejiro’s sister also addressed her mysterious disappearance in an emotional post on Instagram.

While her story continues to unfold, it raises an urgent question: How do you know when you’re in a religious cult?

What Is a Religious Cult?

A cult is typically a group defined by extreme religious, spiritual, or philosophical beliefs, often centered around a single leader or a distorted version of truth. These groups manipulate, isolate, and emotionally control their members, using fear and guilt as tools of obedience. They look religious. They may quote the Bible. They may even perform miracles. But beneath the surface lies coercion, exploitation, and harm.

ALSO READ: How Nigerian churches are making millions from online sermons

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Red Flags of a Religious Cult or Scam Prayer Group

1. Isolation from Family and Friends: Cult leaders often encourage or demand that followers cut ties with anyone who questions the group, especially family. This isolation creates emotional dependence on the group alone.

2. Pressure to Quit Your Job or Business: Like in Ejiro’s case, some groups may urge you to close your business or leave your job in the name of “full-time service” or “spiritual focus.” Be wary, financial dependency increases vulnerability.

3. Selling Off Possessions for ‘Kingdom Investment’: You may be told to sell your house, your car, or drain your savings to “sow a dangerous seed.” When you hesitate, you’re accused of lacking faith.

Other Signs Include:

• Authoritarian Leadership: The leader is always right and cannot be questioned.

• There’s no transparency about finances or leadership decisions.

• Fear-Based Teaching: Constant talk of doom, hell, conspiracies, and persecution from outsiders.

• If you question anything, you’re called a rebel or backslider.

• The goalposts of righteousness keep shifting. Guilt becomes a tool of control.

• Anyone who leaves the group is demonised, punished, or painted as cursed.

• The leader claims to be the only true voice of God. All other teachings are false.

Cults don’t always wear black robes or tell you to get chicken blood; sometimes, they have beautiful Instagram pages, use scripture fluently, and sell deliverance as a lifestyle brand. They thrive on desperation, obedience, and fear.

If something doesn’t feel right, if you’re asked to abandon logic, family, or your identity in the name of “faith”, take a step back and ask yourself: Is this really God, or is it control in disguise?

ALSO READ: From Murder to Lust: The worst popes in history and their shocking scandals

There are parties, and then there are moments. The kind of night that leaves a city thrumming long after the last beat drops, the kind that lives in group chats, blurry videos, and breathless retellings for weeks. That was exactly what happened when Monkey Shoulder’s Press Play Concert made its exciting debut in Enugu — and no, we’re not being dramatic.

Let’s set the scene: The whisky brand popularly known as the best made for mixing blended malt whisky.  A city known for its heart. A collaboration with In The Yard that turned the Base Landmark into a full-blown playground for grown-ups who know how to let loose.

Let’s set the scene: The whisky brand popularly known as the best made for mixing blended malt whisky.  A city known for its heart. A collaboration with In The Yard that turned the Base Landmark into a full-blown playground for grown-ups who know how to let loose. 

Monkey Shoulder didn’t just bring blended malt-whisky to Enugu; they brought a whole vibe— cocktails filled with friskiness, neon lights, electric moving bodies, immersive games and a lineup so tight it felt like a festival. Before the music even hit its stride, the tension was already sky-high. Twenty-four fierce gamers, one playhouse, and ₦1 million up for grabs. The adrenaline was pure yet thick, and by the time Elvis Chukwuma Iheanaetu clenched his victory as the ultimate champ, the crowd had already shifted gears — from hype to hysteria..

And just when you thought it couldn’t get better, the real heat began as DJ Delrhita hit the deck like she had something to prove — and did. EDM. House. Drops so lit the Gen Z crew lost their minds. Casper Sandra doubled the voltage, while Big Swag got the crowd amped, and the hype men; Dangerous Naki, Skye, Slym Shady, and Fresh? They made sure no one sat down or stood still – Sleep? What’s that? When we say the vibes didn’t stop till morning—we mean it.

And then — M.J. Not that MJ, but close enough. South Africa’s own star boy came in like a sonic earthquake, shaking the entire Base Landmark with “Manzi Nte” and “Teka,” leaving us wondering if the roof would hold. The lineup kept giving: DJ Consequence spun magic, Maze & Mxtreme set fire to the decks, and when Magixx slid in with “Colors,” “Okay,” and “Sexy Lady,” it was clear — this wasn’t a concert, it was a hard reset for the people of Enugu.

By the time Commissioner DJ Wysei took us home with a closing set that felt more like a spiritual experience than a party, the crowd was still dancing, still sweating, still wanting more. Sunrise had arrived, but nobody wanted to leave. And who could blame them?

So, if you weren’t there — and you’re feeling that FOMO right now — you should. Because Press Play wasn’t just a concert. It was an exclamation point. A declaration that Enugu is ready for more. And Monkey Shoulder? They’re just getting started.

Stay tuned as Press Play continues to tour the country, bringing vibes, whisky, and raw fun wherever it goes. Until then, one thing’s clear: Enugu didn’t just #PressPlay. It turned the volume all the way up.

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Watch out for the next city, it might just be yours. In the meantime, remember to #MakeItMonkey 

About Monkey Shoulder   

In 2005, Monkey Shoulder, the world’s first made for mixing blended malt whisky, burst into the world of whisky, and it has been breaking the conventions of the category ever since. Developed as the ultimate whisky for cocktails, Monkey Shoulder Original Blended Malt Whisky is blended in small batches of Speyside’s finest single malt whiskies then married together. Rich, smooth and fruity, the original blend is bold enough to be mixed, yet balanced enough to enjoy neat. Most recently, Monkey Shoulder has been voted as the second Best Selling and third Top Trending Scotch Whisky Brand in Drink International’s 2022 Brands Report. This unique blend gets its name from the Scottish slang for a muscular strain suffered by malt men during the days when whisky was still made by hand. 

About William Grant & Sons

William Grant & Sons Ltd. is an independent family-owned distiller headquartered in the United Kingdom and founded by William Grant in 1887. Today, the luxury spirits company is run by the fifth generation of his family and distils some of the world’s leading brands of Scotch whisky, including Monkey Shoulder, the world’s favourite single malt Glenfiddich®, The Balvenie® range of handcrafted single malts and the world’s third largest blended Scotch, Grant’s®, as well as other iconic spirits brands such as Hendrick’s® Gin, Sailor Jerry® and Tullamore D.E.W® Irish Whiskey.

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If you have been dreaming of an Asian adventure but dreading the visa process, we have great news! There are several Asian countries that welcome Nigerian passport holders without a prior visa.

You can explore these countries with just your passport and a plane ticket. Some of them are visa-on-arrival or e-visa options. Here’s a list of 5 Asian countries Nigerians can visit without a visa headache.

ALSO READ: Top 10 European countries that gives visas to Nigerians easily

1. Maldives

Entry Type: Visa on arrival (30 days)

The Maldives is a picture-perfect island nation located in the Indian Ocean. With its white sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, and overwater villas, it’s a dream destination for honeymooners and leisure travellers. Nigerians visiting the Maldives receive a 30-day visa on arrival, provided they have valid travel documents, proof of accommodation, and return tickets.

2. Timor-Leste (East Timor)

Entry Type: Visa on arrival (30 days)

Timor-Leste offers scenic coastlines, serene beaches, and excellent diving opportunities, especially around Atauro Island. Nigerians can obtain a visa on arrival at the Dili International Airport. With fewer crowds and an authentic atmosphere, Timor-Leste is ideal for travellers seeking a quiet escape or an eco-tourism adventure.

3. Sri Lanka

Entry Type: Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

Sri Lanka is a tropical paradise with golden beaches, lush tea plantations, and ancient Buddhist temples. Nigerians need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling, which is quick and easy to obtain online. The ETA is a simpler and faster process than a traditional visa, allowing for online application before arrival. With a valid ETA, travellers can explore the country for up to 30 days and even extend their stay if needed.

ALSO READ: The country with the most expensive visa in the world

4. Iran

Entry Type: Visa on arrival (with pre-approval)

Nigeria are eligible for a visa on arrival in Iran. On boarding the flight to Iran, you are required to show a valid visa grant notice. You can apply for this visa grant notice (also known as a visa approval or visa authorisation code) at a cost, and the process takes 7-10 working days, but it can be expedited. Iran is a country rich in Persian heritage, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality. Cities like Tehran, Isfahan, and Shiraz are filled with historical sites, colourful bazaars, and world-famous mosques and palaces.

5. Bangladesh

Entry Type: Visa on arrival (for specific purposes)

Bangladesh, located in South Asia, offers a mix of rich heritage, lively cities, and breathtaking natural beauty. Nigerians are eligible for a visa on arrival for tourism, business, or official purposes. You must present a hotel booking or an invitation letter, a return ticket, and proof of funds.

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ALSO READ: 5 countries that have visa-banned or restricted Nigerians

Tips Before You Travel

1. Carry Sufficient Funds: Many immigration officers may ask for proof of financial capability. Be ready to show bank statements or cash (especially in USD) to prove you can sustain yourself during your stay.

2. Book Accommodation in Advance: Print out your hotel or Airbnb booking confirmation. Immigration often requests proof of where you’ll be staying, and this helps avoid any unnecessary questioning.

3. Use a Trusted Currency Exchange: Avoid airport exchanges when possible, they often have poor rates.

4. Get Travel Insurance: Even for short trips, insurance protects you from unexpected health issues, theft, or flight delays.

5. Respect Local Customs and Dress Codes: Countries like Iran, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia have conservative cultures, especially at religious sites. Dress modestly.

6. Have a Backup Internet Option: Buy a local SIM card. Google Maps, translation apps, and online bookings are essential, especially in countries where English is not widely spoken.

7. Keep Your Yellow Fever Card: Some Asian countries require proof of yellow fever vaccination, especially if you’re travelling from or transiting through African countries.

8. Learn a Few Local Phrases: A simple “Hello,” “Thank you,” or “Where is the bathroom?” in the local language can go a long way in building rapport and getting help when you need it.

9. Stay Alert at Immigration: Be polite, confident, and answer questions clearly. Immigration in some countries may be strict.

10. Travel During Off-Peak Seasons: To avoid crowds and high costs, travel during shoulder or off-peak seasons. You’ll also get better deals on accommodation and flights.

ALSO READ: Meet the company making MILLIONS from your visa applications