Winners Chapel denies allegation against Oyedepo

The Living Faith Church, popularly known as Winners Chapel, on Sunday dismissed reports that its founder, Bishop David Oyedepo, vowed to unleash the gate of hell on anybody who opposed the re-election of President Goodluck Jonathan.

Jonathan visited the headquarters of the church in Ota, Ogun State on Sunday, January 25.

Shortly after the visit, there were reports that Oyedepo allegedly declared a public support for the President.

In a statement by the Resident Pastor of the church, Pastor Ubong Ntia, the church said the reports “were far from the truth.”

The church said those spreading the rumour should have obtained the video clip of the service and verified the claim.

“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’,” the statement read.

The church said the rumours were intended to cause mischief and to dent the image of Oyedepo and as well as create confusion in the country.

It also said Oyedepo did not call the President to the altar for any special deliverance.

“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 statement added.

Recounting the visit, the church said, “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 said contrary to insinuations that the visit was meant to canvass votes from the church, the President visited “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.”