The International Secretary of the Ecumenical Synods of Bishops, Archbishops, Apostles, and Senior Clergy in London, Archbishop Osazee Williams, has thrown his weight behind Nigerian preacher, Dr. Abel Damina, over the controversial topic of women wearing trousers and the scriptural interpretation of Deuteronomy 22:5.
Williams, in an interview with Sunday PUNCH, described as misleading the common belief that the Bible expressly forbids women from wearing trousers.
He maintained that the passage in question has been grossly misunderstood due to years of religious indoctrination and failure to read the scriptures in proper cultural and contextual light.
Dr Abel Damina had earlier stirred reactions with a viral sermon where he explained that Deuteronomy 22:5 neither mentioned trousers nor skirts, but was rather aimed at discouraging cross -dressing in ancient Israel.
Supporting the view, Archbishop Williams said Bible verses must be interpreted in context and not in isolation, warning that shallow readings often lead to confusion and spiritual manipulation.
He cited global examples to bolster his stance, stating that men in Scotland wear kilts garments similar to skirts as formal attire, while in Nigeria, some ethnic groups such as the Urhobo traditionally wear wrappers.
According to him, “Clothing is defined by culture, not by sin,” stressing that trousers could be more suitable for women due to their practicality and comfort.
“In fact, it is the woman that should wear trouser more because it gives them more flexibility and comfortability,” he stated.