Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo, founder and lead pastor of David’s Christian Centre (DCC) in Lagos, has ignited a fierce online debate after unveiling a prominent tattoo of John 3:16 in Roman numerals (“III:XVI”) on his arm to mark his 50th birthday on January 29, 2026. The viral reveal, shared via video on Instagram and other platforms, has divided Nigerian Christians and social media users, with critics decrying it as unbiblical while supporters hail it as a bold evangelism tool

The tattoo, applied during a session captured on video with the tattoo artist inking the verse across his forearm, features the Roman numerals “III:XVI” prominently displayed. Okonkwo, popularly known as “Pastor PK,” accompanied the post with a voice over reciting the famous Bible verse: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son…” He described the ink as a personal declaration of faith and a modern way to share the gospel, claiming it reached “millions in less than 24 hours” through social media shares.

Okonkwo, has long been a prominent figure in Nigerian Pentecostalism. He founded DCC as a youth fellowship in 1996, growing it into a multi-branch church emphasizing “victorious living” and practical teachings on relationships, marriage, and personal growth. Co-pastoring with his wife, Mildred Kingsley-Okonkwo, he is best known for his “Love, Dating and Marriage” (LDMwithPK) seminars, TV broadcasts, books, and relatable messages targeting young people. He frequently shares his testimony of transforming from a “bad boy” past to a life in Christ.

The controversy erupted immediately after the reveal. Conservative Christians pointed to Leviticus 19:28 (“You shall not make any cuts on your body for the dead or tattoo yourselves: I am the Lord”) as clear prohibition, questioning how a pastor could set such an example. Social media users accused him of hypocrisy, backsliding, or selectively interpreting Scripture. Comments flooded in with sentiments like: “The Bible says we should not make a mark on our skin… hmmmm!” and “As a pastor, you should be leading members in the right path.” Some labeled it “ungodly” and warned it could cause others to stumble in faith.

Okonkwo has responded unapologetically in multiple videos and posts. Dismissing critics, he said: “You people don’t have work… As some of you African people, you don’t have work. It’s that tattoo you people are discussing.” He promised a detailed Bible teaching on the topic, arguing: “No Scripture forbids tattoos.” He drew parallels to cultural practices like women getting microblading or makeup, and Hausa women applying lali (henna), asking: “How’s tattoo wrong? Is it not tattoo?” He added: “I will draw more tattoos and I’ll do dreads. You think the younger generation are boring as you?” and “If it is paining you, go and take Panadol.” Emphasizing evangelism, he stated the tattoo was reaching the youth he is called to minister to and urged focus on Christ over externals.

The debate has spilled beyond social media. Actor Williams Uchemba weighed in on the buzz, while TV programs like YourView discussed it. Other clergy, including Rev. Esiri Kesiena, have shared views on the matter. Supporters praised the move as progressive and relatable, with some saying: “Now I can get my tattoo. My mentor got me there.” Okonkwo framed it as part of “Afro-Trado-Judo Christianity” a blend of African cultural elements with faith versus rigid interpretations.

As of February 4, 2026, the topic continues to trend on platforms like Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and Nairaland, with memes, video clips, and extended discussions. Okonkwo remains active online, promising further scriptural explanation while maintaining the tattoo as a non issue compared to core gospel priorities. No formal church disciplinary action has been reported, and the pastor appears unfazed, positioning the controversy as an opportunity for broader gospel reach.

The saga underscores ongoing tensions in Nigerian Christianity between traditional holiness standards and modern expressions of faith, especially among Pentecostal leaders engaging younger generations in a rapidly changing cultural landscape.