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Category: Religion

  • Prosperity Prayers Thrive Because Africa Lacks Jobs, Pastor Chris Ogugua Says

    A Nigerian cleric, Rev. Chris Ogugua, has stirred debate after claiming that many prosperity-focused ministries in Africa thrive because of widespread unemployment, arguing that churches would lose members if more jobs were available.

    The pastor made the remarks during a sermon that has gone viral on social media, where he questioned the heavy emphasis on prosperity prayers in many churches.

    ‘Prosperity prayers are ignorance’

    In the video shared on Wednesday, Ogugua said many prayer points in African churches are driven by economic hardship rather than spiritual growth.

    “All this prosperity we pray for in church is ignorance because when jobs come to Africa, most pastors will lose their ministries,” he said.

    According to him, many people turn to churches seeking miracles because they lack employment and financial stability.

    Comments trigger mixed reactions

    The sermon has generated widespread reactions online, with many Nigerians divided over the pastor’s comments.

    Some users agreed with him, arguing that poor economic conditions have made many people depend on miracle services for solutions to everyday challenges. Others disagreed, saying churches in developed countries with lower unemployment rates continue to thrive, suggesting that faith is not solely tied to economic hardship.

    Several commenters also argued that governments should focus on creating jobs and improving living conditions rather than leaving citizens to rely on religious institutions for economic hope.

    The comments have added to ongoing conversations about prosperity preaching, unemployment in Africa and the relationship between faith and economic development.

  • Plateau Cleric to Trump: ‘Christians Are Being Wiped Out,’ Urges U.S. Intervention

    The Regional Chairman of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo, has renewed his call on United States President Donald Trump to intervene in the killings in Plateau, alleging that Christians are facing a campaign of genocide in the state.

    Appeal During Mass Burial

    Dachomo made the appeal on Thursday while conducting the mass burial of 22 victims killed during an attack on Kawel community in Mushere Chiefdom, Bokkos Local Government Area.

    According to him, the repeated attacks on Christian communities are neither isolated incidents nor accidental but part of a broader pattern of violence.

    “There is genocide of Christians in Nigeria, and that is the plain truth. That is why I keep calling on President Trump to intervene. Any further delay will see Christians completely wiped out from Plateau State,” he said.

    The cleric also repeated the appeal in a post shared on his X account, warning that rural Christian communities remain vulnerable if urgent action is not taken.

    Calls for Justice and Protection

    Dachomo said the suffering of Christian communities deserves international attention, regardless of differing opinions on the use of the word “genocide.”

    “The world must know what is happening, and the international community cannot continue to remain silent in the face of human suffering. Every life matters, and every victim deserves justice, protection, and a voice,” he said.

    He stressed that his appeal was not a call for revenge but for justice, security and accountability.

    “We call not for hatred or revenge, but for justice, security, accountability and lasting peace. Silence helps no one. The time to act, to speak, and to protect innocent lives is now,” he added.

    ‘One of the Most Painful Days of My Ministry’

    Reflecting on the burial, Dachomo described it as one of the darkest moments of his ministry, saying the sight of grieving families left him heartbroken.

    “Today was one of the most painful days of my ministry. With tears in my eyes and a heavy heart, I stood before 22 coffins as I conducted the mass burial of our brothers and sisters in Christ who were brutally killed,” he said.

    He noted that the victims were fathers, mothers, children and devoted Christians whose lives were cut short by violence.

    “As we lowered their bodies into the ground, I could not help but ask: How many more innocent Christians must be buried before the world hears our cries? How many more tears must be shed before peace returns to our communities?” he asked.

    Dachomo also questioned how many more communities would have to endure similar attacks before authorities provide lasting protection, while expressing hope that God would comfort the bereaved families.

     

  • Pastor Ibiyeomie Questions Insecurity, Claims Politicians May Be Sponsoring Kidnappers in Nigeria

    Founder of Port Harcourt-based Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, has raised fresh concerns over Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, questioning how kidnappers continue to operate despite the capabilities of the country’s security agencies.

    The cleric made the remarks during a recent sermon, where he suggested that the abduction of schoolchildren and other victims may not be random, alleging that powerful individuals could be backing the crimes.

    Allegations of Possible Sponsors

    Pastor Ibiyeomie said the pattern of kidnappings raises suspicion that the perpetrators may be receiving support from influential figures.

    “They are not just picking these children without sponsors. Politicians must be behind it,” he stated.

    He further questioned why security agencies have not been able to effectively track and arrest those responsible, despite what he described as advanced surveillance capabilities.

    Questions on Security Operations

    The cleric expressed doubt over the inability of security agencies to trace kidnappers, arguing that modern technology should make it easier to locate criminals.

    “The DSS can track people, so how come they are not tracking these kidnappers? There must be an invisible hand behind it,” he added.

    He also suggested that the continued success of kidnappers points to deeper systemic issues within Nigeria’s security architecture.

    Public Reactions and Ongoing Debate

    His comments have since generated reactions across social media, with Nigerians divided over his claims. While some agreed with his concerns about insecurity and accountability, others urged caution against making unverified allegations.

    The remarks come amid renewed public anxiety over rising kidnappings and attacks in different parts of the country, including recent incidents involving schoolchildren and teachers.

    Authorities have yet to respond to the specific claims made by the cleric at the time of this report.

  • Pastor Adeboye Urges Tinubu to Set 90-Day Deadline for Security Chiefs Over Insecurity

    The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has called on the Federal Government to enforce strict accountability on Nigeria’s security chiefs over the worsening security situation in the country.

    The cleric’s remarks, originally made during the November 2025 Holy Ghost Service and resurfaced on June 2, 2026, have continued to generate widespread reactions across social media platforms.

    Call for 90-Day Ultimatum

    In the video, Adeboye urged the government to give security chiefs a 90-day deadline to eliminate terrorists and their sponsors or step down from office.

    He said the directive should be firm and applied regardless of the status or influence of those involved in terrorism financing or operations.

    “Find a way to convince the President of America to please delay his actions for about 100 days. Then come home and tell our security chiefs to get rid of these terrorists within 90 days or resign,” he said.

    Focus on Terrorism Sponsors

    Adeboye also stressed the need to dismantle the networks behind terrorist activities, insisting that sponsors must be identified and dealt with decisively.

    He referenced previous advice given during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, noting that similar directives had been issued in the past but were not fully implemented.

    Context of Rising Insecurity

    The resurfacing of the video comes amid ongoing insecurity challenges in Nigeria, including bandit attacks, kidnappings, and terrorist activities in several regions.

    Recent incidents, including school abductions in parts of the country, have intensified public debate on security reforms and government response strategies.

    While supporters praised the cleric for his call for accountability and action-driven leadership, critics questioned the timing and consistency of his public interventions across different administrations.

  • CAN Declares June 14 Black Sunday Over Rising Terror Attacks

    The Christian Association of Nigeria has declared Sunday, June 14, 2026, as Black Sunday in honour of victims of terrorist attacks across the country.

    The association also announced a nationwide prayer programme scheduled to hold from June 12 to June 14 as part of efforts to mourn victims and seek divine intervention over the country’s security challenges.

    CAN Calls for Urgent Action on Insecurity

    Speaking at the end of the National Church Denominational Leadership Summit 2026, CAN President, Daniel Okoh, said prayers alone would not be enough to address the worsening security situation in Nigeria.

    According to him, practical and decisive measures are needed to restore safety and protect citizens from persistent attacks by criminal and terrorist groups.

    Okoh urged the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on insecurity, describing the situation as critical and requiring immediate intervention.

    Push for State Police

    The CAN president also renewed calls for the establishment of state police and the decentralisation of Nigeria’s security architecture.

    He argued that empowering states with greater control over security operations would enable quicker and more effective responses to emerging threats.

    According to him, the current security structure requires reforms to adequately address the growing challenges facing communities across the country.

    Demand for Release of Kidnap Victims

    Okoh further called for the unconditional release of all kidnapped victims being held by terrorists and criminal groups.

    He urged security agencies and relevant authorities to intensify efforts to rescue those in captivity and ensure justice for victims and their families.

    The declaration of Black Sunday comes amid growing concerns over recurring attacks, kidnappings and killings in several parts of the country, which have prompted renewed calls for stronger security measures.

  • RCCG Debunks Claims Linking Adeboye to Protest Against Jonathan

    The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has refuted claims circulating on social media that its General Overseer, Enoch Adeboye, led a protest against the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

    In a statement released by RCCG Public Relations, the church described the claim as false and said a photograph being used to support the narrative had been taken out of context.

    RCCG Explains Viral Photograph

    According to the church, the image showing Pastor Adeboye holding a placard was taken during a peaceful nationwide walk organised in response to a directive from the Christian Association of Nigeria during the administration of late former President Muhammadu Buhari.

    The statement explained that churches across the country participated in the exercise to draw attention to the killing of Christians and urge the government to improve security.

    “The walk in Ebute Metta, where Pastor Adeboye participated, was part of that nationwide exercise. It was neither organised against President Goodluck Jonathan nor connected in any way to his administration,” the statement said.

    Church Rejects Political Interpretation

    RCCG said the photographs from the event have been repeatedly recycled and falsely presented as evidence of a protest against Jonathan’s government.

    The church stressed that Pastor Adeboye’s message during the walk focused on the value of human life and the need to protect innocent Nigerians regardless of religious background.

    “It is important to note that Pastor Adeboye’s message during the walk was clear: all lives matter to God. His placard emphasised the value of every human life, regardless of religious affiliation,” the statement added.

    Adeboye Has Spoken on Insecurity, RCCG Says

    The church also responded to criticisms that Pastor Adeboye has remained silent on the country’s challenges.

    It recalled that during the November 2025 Holy Ghost Service, the cleric publicly advised President Bola Tinubu on the worsening security situation, urging urgent action against terrorists and their sponsors.

    According to RCCG, Adeboye warned that insecurity could attract foreign intervention if not addressed and called for security chiefs to be held accountable.

    The statement quoted him as saying: “When they eliminate the terrorists, ask them to eliminate their sponsors too.”

    RCCG Clarifies Its Position

    The church maintained that Pastor Adeboye is a religious leader and not a political office holder, adding that RCCG is not affiliated with any political party.

    It stated that the General Overseer cannot dictate how elected officials govern and should not be blamed for the nation’s current challenges.

    The church urged the public to verify information through its official communication channels before sharing claims involving Pastor Adeboye or RCCG.

  • David Ibiyeomie Responds to Criticism Over Clergy Silence on Nigeria’s Insecurity

    Founder of Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, has reacted to criticisms that religious leaders have remained silent on Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, saying the claims ignore past interventions by the clergy.

    The cleric spoke during a church service, where he addressed ongoing debates about the role of pastors in speaking out on national issues such as kidnappings and insecurity.

    Cleric Defends Past Interventions

    Ibiyeomie argued that religious leaders have not been silent over the years, insisting that many of the concerns being raised today were also spoken about during earlier administrations.

    He questioned why critics who were vocal in the past are now less active in their public commentary on governance and insecurity.

    “Now nobody is talking again, all those people that use to r!ot during are not r!oting again, Nigeria is a funny country. They talked during Jonathan, why they no talk again. They say men of God are not talking about the country’s insecurity, the ones that talked during Jonathan’s term, why’re they not talking now? The time we talked, una talk? We’ve been shouting since,” he said.

    Ongoing Debate on Religious Voices

    His remarks come amid renewed public debate over whether religious leaders should take stronger public positions on insecurity, kidnappings, and governance challenges in the country.

    While some Nigerians argue that clerics have a moral duty to speak out more forcefully, others believe their role should remain largely spiritual rather than political.

    The conversation continues as insecurity and public safety concerns dominate national discourse.

  • Ibiyeomie Warns Nigerians Against “Wrong Vote” in 2027, Predicts Dollar Could Hit ₦2,000

    Founder of Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, has urged Nigerians to prioritise visionary leadership ahead of future elections, warning that poor political choices could worsen the country’s economic situation.

    The cleric made the remarks during a recent message to members, where he referenced the depreciation of the naira and growing economic hardship across the country.

    Ibiyeomie Speaks On Nigeria’s Economy

    According to him, Nigeria’s economic challenges have deepened over the years, with the value of the naira falling sharply compared to previous years.

    He warned that if Nigerians repeat what he described as wrong leadership choices in future elections, the exchange rate could deteriorate further.

    “Naira was 100 and something 7 years ago. Now it’s 610. If you make mistake it will be 2000,” he said.

    The pastor urged citizens to focus less on political parties and more on individuals with practical plans and clear visions for national development.

    Criticism Of Politicians

    Ibiyeomie also criticised politicians who frequently switch political parties, alleging that many are motivated by personal interests rather than service to the people.

    According to him, some politicians only defect when they fail to secure appointments or political advantages within their parties.

    “Once this party doesn’t favour them, they jump to another party,” he said.

    The cleric argued that such political behaviour weakens public trust and contributes to instability within the political system.

    Warning Against Vote Buying

    The pastor further condemned vote buying and financial inducement during elections, urging Nigerians not to trade their future for temporary benefits.

    Referencing the biblical story of Esau, he warned against sacrificing long-term national progress for short-term financial gains.

    “If you collect money you are Esau. Esau sold his birthright for a morsel of meal,” he stated.

    He maintained that leadership decisions should be guided by integrity, vision, and what he described as divine direction rather than monetary influence.

    “I’m Not Campaigning”

    Ibiyeomie clarified that he was not campaigning for any political party or candidate, insisting that his comments were based on concern for the country’s future.

    According to him, his responsibility as a preacher includes speaking honestly about national issues affecting citizens.

    “I’m not campaigning, I don’t have any party. I’m a preacher, but I must tell you the truth,” he said.

    His comments have since generated reactions online, with many Nigerians debating the role of religious leaders in political discussions and national development.

  • “Don’t Chew Gum In Church, You’re Not A Goat” – Pastor David Obiyeome Sparks Reactions Over Strict Church Rules

    Founder of Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Obiyeome, has sparked reactions online after issuing strict instructions on how church members should conduct themselves during worship services.

    A viral video circulating on X showed the clergyman cautioning worshippers against chewing gum, drinking water, or using mobile phones inside the church auditorium.

    Pastor warns members against casual behaviour in church

    Speaking during a church service, Pastor Obiyeome insisted that worshippers must show reverence while inside the church environment.

    “Don’t chew gum when you’re in church, you’re not a goat. Don’t drink water in church. If you want to drink water, go outside. Don’t use phone at all in church,” he said.

    The pastor further stated that the church should not be treated casually, adding that some behaviours displayed during services were inappropriate.

    “This is not a Pentecostal church, only Pentecostal churches allow water inside church,” he added.

    Video triggers mixed reactions online

    The comments have since generated debate across social media platforms, with many Nigerians sharing different opinions on the pastor’s remarks.

    While some users agreed with his message about discipline and respect during worship, others argued that some of the restrictions appeared too harsh for modern church settings.

    One user wrote, “He made his point, but the delivery wasn’t right.”

    Another commented, “Some of these rules are too extreme for modern church settings.”

    Others defended the pastor, insisting that churches should maintain order and seriousness during services.

  • Femi Lazarus Announces Temporary Relocation to Kenya, Cites ‘Divine Instruction’

    The founder of Light Nation Church, Femi Lazarus, has announced plans to temporarily relocate to Kenya, describing the decision as guided by what he called divine instruction.

    The cleric made the disclosure during a church service in Kenya, where the announcement was met with applause from members.

    Cleric announces move in Kenya

    In a video circulating online, Lazarus said the relocation marks a new phase in his ministry.

    “That is the instruction God gave to us… it is a very significant morning for us in this new phase of our assignment,” he said.

    He added that he believes every nation carries the grace required for its development, noting that his presence in Kenya aligns with that belief.

    Mixed reactions trail announcement

    The announcement has generated reactions on social media, with opinions divided over the reason for the move.

    Some users expressed support, noting that religious leaders often act based on spiritual convictions.

    Others, however, questioned the motivation behind the relocation, suggesting possible non-spiritual factors.

    Part of broader ministry expansion

    The development comes amid growing cross-border expansion among Nigerian churches, with several ministries establishing branches across Africa and beyond.

    Observers say such movements often reflect efforts to reach new audiences and strengthen international presence.