“Tattoos Don’t Dishonour the Body” — Mike Abdul Weighs In on Pastor Okonkwo Tattoo Debate

Gospel singer Mike Abdul has joined the ongoing debate surrounding Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo’s recent tattoo, stating that tattoos do not dishonour the human body.

In an Instagram post, Abdul explained that tattoos have historically been used across ancient cultures for identity, memory, status, covenant, and storytelling, arguing that their meaning depends on what they represent rather than the act itself.

“Tattoos don’t dishonour the body. What dishonours a temple is not the writing on the walls; what matters is what the mark points to, not the mark itself,” he wrote.

Abdul further emphasised that spirituality is determined by the heart and actions, not physical appearance.

“God reads hearts, not skin. Ink without conviction is decoration. Ink with conviction is remembrance. If a tattoo leads you closer to gratitude, identity, or reverence, it has served a good purpose,” he added.

He concluded that faith should be measured by transformed lives rather than unmarked skin.

Abdul’s remarks come after some Christians criticised Pastor Okonkwo for getting a tattoo, arguing that it dishonours the body God gave him.