Renowned Nigerian pastor, Femi Lazarus, has come under intense scrutiny online after comments he made regarding women’s menstrual cycles went viral, sparking widespread debate and criticism across social media platforms.
In the controversial sermon clip, Pastor Lazarus addressed women’s behavior during their periods, suggesting that mood swings commonly associated with menstruation are not a result of the biological process itself but rather a reflection of the woman’s personality. His statements have been described by many social media users as insensitive, dismissive, and lacking understanding of women’s health and experiences.
The Sermon That Sparked Backlash
During the sermon, Pastor Lazarus stated: “You are not the first woman to see your period, so your menstruation is not the problem. I have never seen anywhere in the Bible any woman complain about menstrual pain. You are simply not a peaceful person.” This remark immediately drew widespread attention, with many viewers condemning it for trivializing a natural biological process and ignoring the physiological and emotional aspects of menstruation.
Women React Strongly on Social Media
The online response was swift and overwhelmingly critical. Women in particular expressed outrage, with many pointing out that the comments reflected a lack of empathy and understanding from male religious leaders regarding female experiences. One user remarked, “You are sick… Preach Jesus, not gender!” Another added, “This is why women are fed up with male religious leaders speaking on female issues.”
Critics also emphasized that men of God should exercise caution and focus on their spiritual mission rather than commenting on areas where they may lack expertise. They argued that such statements risk perpetuating misinformation and reinforcing gender biases, particularly in religious communities where leaders hold significant influence.
Mixed Reactions and Ongoing Debate
While the backlash has been significant, some followers and supporters of Pastor Lazarus defended him, arguing that his statements were intended to encourage self-reflection rather than to demean women. Nonetheless, the discussion has ignited a broader conversation about the role of religious leaders in discussing gender and health issues, and the importance of sensitivity and informed commentary in public sermons.
The incident highlights the growing scrutiny of public figures in Nigeria, particularly religious leaders, and underscores the need for greater awareness and empathy when addressing topics related to women’s health. Online discussions continue to trend, with many calling for more educational approaches and respect for the lived experiences of women.
Watch Video
Watch the sermon clip below, which triggered the debate:
"You are not the first woman to see her period, so your menstruation is not the problem. You are simply not a peaceful person" — Apostle Femi Lazarus pic.twitter.com/C9B7vQKRGN
— Oyindamola🙄 (@dammiedammie35) October 28, 2025