The Living Faith Church, also known as Winners Chapel on Sunday, February 1, 2015 rebuffed claims in the media over statements made by its Founder/General Overseer, Bishop David Oyedepo during the visit of President Goodluck Jonathan to the church headquarters at Ota, Ogun State.
Speaking through a statement by the resident clergy of the church, Pastor Ubong Ntia, the church stated that at no time during the service did Bishop Oyedepo vow to unleash the gates of hell on those opposing the re-election of President Jonathan, stating that the statements were false as those spreading the rumours did not get a clip of the service prior to their claims.
The statement read: “There was nowhere, nor was there any time the following prayer or words were uttered by the Church or the Bishop: ‘I will open the gates of hell to anyone who opposes you’, or ‘I will open the gates of hell to anyone who opposes the peace of this nation’.
“President Jonathan along with his entourage, like the rest of the congregation, was upstanding, and prayers were made for him and all those in authority, and the nation.
“The President and his entourage arrived at Canaan Land (Faith Tabernacle) for the third service at about 9. 30am. He and his team were ushered in and asked to occupy the front seats alongside the resident pastor and other senior pastors. Thereafter, in honour of the President, Bishop Oyedepo invited Jonathan to ‘bring a word of greeting’ to the congregation.
“President Jonathan spent approximately six minutes in his address, clearly stating that he would be careful not to sound political so that his visit and intentions would not be construed as electioneering campaign.
“In his brief speech, he adulated the ministry and person of bishop for the mighty works of faith, prayer for Nigeria and educational milestones the Living Faith Church has engendered for national development. He then expressed his belief that the elections of 2015 would go peacefully, while also asking for the people of God to pray more.”
The church also said that in contrast to claims, the visit of President Jonathan was not political in nature, but was “in his capacity as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Our church of over 33 years has been a sanctuary for all people with no prejudice to colour, ethnicity and political persuasion. We stand for righteousness and cherish our integrity.”
