Lagos RCCG Province Inaugurates Community-Focused Projects

The Redeemed Christian Church of God, Lagos Province 28, has inaugurated several projects aimed at repositioning the province for improved worship experience and greater community impact.

According to a statement from the church, the projects include a generator house, solar-powered poles, and an ultra-modern LED altar background fitted with new equipment and television screens.

The province also dedicated new video cameras to strengthen its media unit and enhance service delivery.

The Pastor-in-Charge, who doubles as the Assistant Pastor-in-Charge of Region 63, Bola Orekoya, was quoted in the statement as saying that the projects were executed to position the church for more impact, attract more worshippers, and win more souls.

He noted that the province was committed to aligning with the RCCG Vision 2032, which targets winning 40 million souls before 2032.

Orekoya urged Christians to love one another, stressing that dedication to God must remain unwavering despite challenges.

The statement read, “The province of the latter glory, known for excellence also dedicated brand new video cameras to make the media more effective and service delivery friendly, as the church services will now be beamed live on various social media platforms.

 “Pastor Bola Orekoya, the pastor in charge of the province who also doubles as the assistant pastor in charge of Region 63, said the overall objective of putting this equipment in place is to position the church for more community impact, attract more worshipers and souls to the kingdom of God.

“He also said his province is doing everything possible towards ensuring proactive compliance with RCCG vision 2032, which centres on winning 40 million souls between now and 2032.

“Pastor Orekoya, a quintessential leader who believes in total commitment and dedication to the things of God, even in the midst of storms and any distractions said Christians should love one another just as Christ love us the commissioning the legacy projects was rounded up with a special service tagged Turning point which attracted several worshipers.”

  

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DNA Tests Show Two Of My Children Are Not My Biological Children - Pastor Chris Okafor

He has been vilified without a response and therefore caught  the image of a molester. However, meeting Dr. Chris Okafor, General overseer of Mountain of Liberation and Miracle Ministry cuts a different picture – sharp witted, cerebral and exuding a high level of both episcopal and philosophical calmness. He effortlessly exhibits control in the sprawling edifice at Ojodu that is the headquarters of his church. Just stepping down from his altar, he clutched the hand of his newly wedded wife, both dressed in white and tailed by a mammoth crowd that are his members. In his office, he calmly took Obinna Chima and Ahamefula Ogbu through his trajectories of life till when controversies found him. The man of God swore his innocence on allegations of molesting women, even his daughters and wondered why it was when it went public that he was remarrying that all the allegations started flying. He spoke of his early life, call, how the hand of God rested on him, chequered marriage, divorce, failed DNA test of two children and recovery to remarry, then the social media draggings… excerpts

Can you take us back to your early years—what was life like growing up, and how did your upbringing shape your worldview?

My upbringing was interesting in the sense that it was a humble beginning that shaped and prepared us for today. A lot of people make the mistake of building the future for their children and not building their children for their future. So, how I was raised, I was built and prepared for the future. I was born and raised in Benin City, which was known then as Bendel State and now Edo State. We lived together as a family with my parents in just one room in Benin City, specifically at Number One Emovon Street, off St. Saviour in Benin City.

My parents were and are still very strong Christians, and the way we were raised prepared us for everything you see God doing today. Thirteen of us were living in one room – my parents, my siblings, and my cousins. I recall my mother had her bed on the left while my father’s bed used to be by the right, in the same room. While the girls would lie on the bed with my mother, we, the boys, would put a mat on the floor. Prayers for us were compulsory – morning and night. From there, I attended primary, secondary schools, and the university, where I obtained my First Degree before I came to Lagos. Lagos was the beginning of the journey of this ministry. Meanwhile, I must recall that I had three sisters ahead of me.

So, my mother was under pressure for a male child. Pressure in the sense that in a typical African setting, would always be demanding for a male child. I had two brothers who later died; my father was looking for more male children. So, my mum was praying. She attended a conference where a powerful prophet prophesied to my mother that she would have a son who would become a prophet and would be mightily used by God, and that his prophetic gifts would start manifesting from the age of seven or eight. It was she and my dad who received the prophecy with other men and women of God confirming the same thing. My name was already given before I was born, so they didn’t have to pray or think about a name to call me because it was a thing of the spirit. So, they gave me the native name Ihechukwu, which means light of God; Christian, which means Christ-like.

That was how my name came. So, as I said earlier, while growing up, it was a necessity that you must do morning devotion in my family, and everyone must fast on the weekends; it was compulsory. At the age of six, there was a primary school opposite our house. The late Archbishop Benson Idahosa was holding a crusade, and I went there as a little child. Different miracles happened that night, and when he called those who were willing to give their lives to Jesus to come out, I came out. He saw me and told them to allow me to climb to the stage where he was, and he laid hands on me and spoke prophetically that God was going to use me. To me, that was my encounter with Jesus personally. By the age of seven and eight, my prophetic gifts started manifesting strongly.

On one occasion, as a little boy, I had a dream. I called my mum and dad to pray against a death in my family, and they ignored it. A week later, there was an accident, and my cousin was affected, and she was almost dead. When my parents received the sad news, that was when they remembered what I told them. So, the gift continued to manifest. Sometimes they can be playing football, and God will reveal the final scores to me. I was born into an Anglican family. I attended Ohuoba Primary School at Murtala Muhammed Way, Benin City; attended Edo College, and then proceeded to Ambrose Alli University.

My dad was a carpenter, and my mum used to sell vegetables at Ekiosa market. While we, the boys, would always follow my dad to his shop, the girls would go to the market with my mum. I learnt carpentry, and I was building wooden doors and all manner of things. I built a wooden wheelbarrow, and every morning when I wake up, I go to fetch water from a far distance until it’s about 6 am, and I will start preparing for school. So, all these shaped my childhood. I was the first to become a graduate in my family and there were many other ways through God’s privilege that I was prepared for this calling. When I got to Lagos, I did not know anybody and I went to a school and appealed to a security man to allow me to be sleeping in the small room with him. In the morning, I will take my shower and go out for evangelism and my street ministrations. It was from there a good man, an Anglican priest, Rev. Chuks Elezie, from Abia State, picked me up and took me to his house. That was how the ministry started about 22 years ago.

Would you say you were a stubborn child growing up, or more pliable?

I was a very stubborn child. I used to fight a lot growing up. You cannot grow up in Benin City and not be stubborn.

So, was the influence of your childhood more from your mother or your father?

I would say I got a little bit of the stubbornness from my father. My mother has a calm personality and my dad used to be stubborn. But as I grew up, I am only stubborn when it comes to confronting the enemy, but in the real sense, I am very humble. 

Now, what is your actual age? Are you 55 years or 44 years, because what we have online is different from what you say is your age?

I don’t know how that came about, but we are going to do everything possible to correct that. There is nobody who can lie about his or her age because you have age mates that you grew up with. I was speaking with my childhood friends recently, and they were also worried that people are saying I am 55 years old. I am the sixth child of my mother. If my late elder brother was alive, he would have been 60 years. If he is 60 as the first and I am the sixth, how can I be 55 years? So, my real age is 44 years. Do I look 55 years? My mother is about 80 years old, so if I am 55 years old, how many years was my mother when she gave birth to her first child? But I think how that happened was that there was a time I wanted to travel abroad when I came to Lagos and they felt my age was too small. So, when I was to renew the passport, I didn’t know that while they were filing the form, they added more years to my age. I complained then, but there was nothing I could do. I am sure that was where they got that from. So, I am 44 years. I got married around 21 and 22 years.

Growing up among girls, what was the experience like? Did it make you have respect for women or to loathe women?

I have so much respect for women. For example, I love my mother so much, and I love my sisters, and I can tell you why. Even though we were born without a silver spoon, my mother stood with my father, showed us love and encouragement. I love my mother and my sisters and I respect women. Unfortunately, when I married at that young age, that changed everything.  But I love my mother, my sister, and I am married now, so I love my wife as well as my biological daughters and every other one that God has brought around me.

You are a handsome young man, a man of means, and women flock around people like you. How do you manage pressure from women?

It is not a difficult thing to do. There is distraction, and there is focus. You choose focus. Focus is not the absence of distraction, but you choose focus. With the help of God, I have always known how to build deliberate structures around myself. Firstly, there are levels you go with God in prayers. When you become a man of prayers and fasting consistently, and you are determined, certain things don’t become a problem to you. The more you pray and get closer to God and study the word of God, these distractions don’t become problems to you anymore. So, I put structures around myself. For example, it will be difficult for the person to access me. From the church, which is our main consistency, if I am going to have a one-on-one counselling, I don’t do it in my office. We do it in the church openly. So, even if you are a man or woman, if I am counselling you, one of my pastors would be there. Secondly, I go from the church to my house and from my house to the church or when I am going to the airport. So, there are people around me that makes it impossible for people to access me. I don’t just go out because my face is not hidden. As you serve God, the last thing you will want to do is to bring the name of God to disrepute. Covenant and discipline must come in through the help of God.

There is this aphorism that there is a streak of Samson in every man. Do you mean that you don’t have feelings for the opposite sex?

I’m married, so I have feelings for my wife. The Bible made it clear in 1 Corinthians 7 that if you can stay without getting married, stay, but if not, marry, and that if you marry, you stay with your wife. The scripture has already settled it. I am a man, and I am happily married. So, whatever it is, is for me and my wife. Note that it took about 14 years for me to remarry, and for me to have stayed that long, there must be a reason for that. My appearance may be a little bit deceptive. Why did I say so? 1 Corinthians 2:7 says the man of the spirit knows the things of the spirit, but the people of the flesh only understand by the flesh.

So, because of what I went through in my previous marriage, it took me a long time to remarry. Recall that I spoke out one time after I was done with my first marriage. I had a really terrible experience in that marriage, and because of that, I said I was not going to get married again. What I am saying is not hidden because I said it openly in the church that I would never get married again, and that neither would I have anything to do with any woman because of the wound I came out with from that marriage. But I prayerfully went through it by the help of God anf through fathers like Pastor Mathew Ashimolowo and Bishop David Abioye. These fathers really helped me to come out of it and encouraged me to remarry. So, the last thing in my mind before now was talking about a woman.

So, you don’t see yourself as a womaniser?

How can that be? Firstly, there are certain things you cannot do. If you carry fuel in your body, you cannot go to where there is light. It will burn you. You don’t carry water in your mouth and attempt to blow out a fire. Whether you like it or not, there are things that, by being a child of God, as a Christian and by your calling, to him whom much is given, much is expected. You cannot rebuke if you have not been rebuked; you cannot teach if you have not been taught, and you cannot command if you have not been commanded. So, you have to do everything possible because you are answerable to God. As I said to you, going through my experience in my first marriage, the last thing on your mind would be a woman or women. They say if you have been bitten by a snake before, even when you see a millipede, you will run. I am not just a Pastor that just goes to the altar to preach; if you attend my service, you will see the kind of things that God does through me. You cannot operate in that dimension and still be living your life anyhow.

So, why are there all sorts of allegations of molestation and sexual misconduct against you?

Now, another question that is important to be asked is: How come I wasn’t accused of molesting anyone for 14 years, until I decided to remarry? That is what everybody should be asking. So, they allowed me as a molester, to walk freely for 14 years? So, nothing was wrong until I decided to remarry? If I tell you that my ex-wife sent me a message recently asking me why I decided to remarry. Imagine a woman we divorced 14 years ago, with whom we have never spoken, because it was a bitter split, asking me why I decided to remarry. She even got my wife’s phone number and was threatening her that they would kill her.

So, the whole issue started because I decided to remarry. If I was any of those things they allege I am, they would have come out to say so for 14 years. Imagine telling my son that now that I have remarried, his inheritance will be threatened. How do you tell a 17-year-old boy that? This is the dimension and angle people don’t understand. I have the divorce proceedings. There is no way any court will put four children under your custody when you are a molester. She wanted to take custody of the children, but I told the court that she didn’t have what it takes to raise them. How old were these children then – nine, six, four, and two years respectively. No court would give me all those children if I were a molester. Recall that 14 years ago, she granted an interview to a newspaper, and there was no place where she mentioned that I molested the children. After that, I was given the custody of the children, and she was given access, so that she could come and see them, but under strict supervision. One day, she came to my house after we had divorced, and she said she was not going to leave. I had to call my lawyer, Barrister Ubani, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, who reported the matter to a Police Station close to my house. That was how they came and moved her out.

She tore her clothes, went to a newspaper, and granted another interview. There is no way I would be such a person, and the court would grant me the children. How do you think I will feel when a DNA test I conducted, which I decided to keep to myself for years, shows that two among the four children are not your own? That is the wound I have borne for many years that I kept within myself, because I wanted to protect those children. So, I am not happy that I am saying all of these.  When all these things started, they went to VeryDarkMan (VDM), the one whose face was blurred, and made her say some scripted and fabricated fallacies against me. When I was with my previous wife, she would tell me, “I will pull you down, I will destroy your ministry.” So she thought she had found a platform to unleash that threat. It was well-scripted, and I am speaking today because I have evidence. If you watch, all these while I decided not to respond, not because I don’t know how to talk, or because we are powerless. But silence says so many things. Later, the one who is supposed to be the first daughter called from Canada via WhatsApp, and I recorded our conversation.

She kept asking if the conversation was being recorded because they knew they had done something bad to me. I asked her, “Chinyere, you grew  up here, knew me as your father, have I ever done any of those things you were said to have accused me of doing?” She said “no.” I asked her again: “What is that thing you said I normally do to you before I climb the altar?” She said, “Nothing like that happened.” I asked her about what her sister went to VDM to say, and she said she doesn’t have any knowledge of such a thing, and I asked her to add her sister, Amarachi, to the WhatsApp call and she added her. I then asked Amarachi why she lied against me, and she said we should forget it, that it has passed. I said, “Really, to misrepresent me, damage my reputation, and make me look like who I am not, and you are saying it has passed.” I now knew it was a script and they told them to act. I asked her if I had ever done any of those things they accused me of doing, and she said no.

I now wanted to know why she went to that extent, and she said she was fighting for her sibling. So, Amarachi said Precious told her that she entered my room when she was 15 years old and that I touched her and she started shaking, and I left her alone thereafter. I now said if that is in my character, I would have done that to every one of you.  Secondly, a molester or a rapist would not say because your body is shaking, he will not go ahead to molest you and if it is in my character, I would have done the same to all of them, and many more people would have come out to say I did the same to them. Later, the same VDM sent me a message on 25th December last year demanding that I should pay the fees for the remaining school years.

According to him, for Precious and the one in Canada, the total amount for school fees, accommodation and other allowance was $57,500. Then for Amarachi – school fees – N6.4 million and accommodation – N3.6 million. When we calculated everything and converted it to naira, it was about N80 million. So, how can you be asking a man who is a molester to pay your school fees? They just wanted to extort money from me if I had played along. One of my daughters sent me a message earlier that if I did not give them the money, she would go to social media. I have the message on my phone. It was then I now asked her to go and meet her mother to ask her who her real father is. Note this, when I discovered through the DNA test that she wasn’t my biological child, I withdrew myself, because there was so much pain in me, and I stopped paying the school fees further.

There were also allegations that you raped your present wife, and after that, you were forced to marry her?

That is to show you the level of desperation. The idea was to do everything to paint me black. My wife and I had a covenant discipline and we agreed that we would wait until after our marriage. For somebody to say I raped her and her parents now compelled me to marry her, it shows the level of desperation.

So, all these talks about young preachers covering for each other when there are allegations of misconduct is not real?

I have never covered for anybody, and for me, I don’t know anything like that. If you are a thief, you cover for a thief, and you cannot cover what you don’t know. I have never such an experience. You know when something happens, people would come out to say different things and all of that.  

Who is your spiritual mentor, and what are your biggest strengths and weaknesses?

God is our strength, and there is no weakness in God; if there is no weakness in God, there is no atom of weakness in us. That is the reason why we are moving forward. The Bible says if you faint in the days of adversaries, it means your strength is little. But we are empowered and strengthened by God. As we go to him, we draw strength from him every day. God is powerful and it is the help of God and his mercy that has kept us and held us, and what the enemy meant for evil, God has turned it for our good. I can tell you that this season is my best season. Every season is important. There are seasons God wants you to learn, and there are seasons God wants you to know those around you. Some seasons come to announce you. Talking about mentorship, you heard me mention Pastor Mathew Ashimolowo, Bishop David Abioye and there are others that I admire, but these two stand out for me. They are my mentors and fathers and they have shaped my life. These fathers have stood for me to make sure I do the right thing and that I must continue to do the right thing. I can’t fail God and I can’t fail them. When I look at their faces, I tell myself that I can’t do anything that will bring reproach to them.

What do you consider your highest point in life in terms of happiness?

My highest point in life is when I fulfil what God has assigned me to do, and every time people are converted to Jesus Christ I am happy. Every time God uses me to reach his people, to deliver those in bondage and when I see a sinner turn to righteousness. Those are the things that make me happy.

What of your low points in life?

I don’t think there are low points in my life.

Do you have any regrets in life?

Not at all.

Can you speak to us about the empowerment schemes that are being undertaken by your ministry?

We have the Chris Okafor Humanity Foundation. That Foundation takes care of people in different ways. We have over 600 people, both in Lagos, in my village and other places on scholarship at various in secondary schools and universities. We also have foundation that takes care of widows and the less privilege. We cater for the less privileged, we empower people and atimes we train people for different skills. We have trained and empowered thousands of people since we started this and in the same vein we have sponsored many people abroad. We got visas for some, bought their tickets and all of that. There are countless of people we have sheltered and given accommodation. We give thanks to God for giving us the privilege and the wherewithal to be able to touch lives and we are going to do more by the grace of God. If you come to this area where we have our church, we did the interlocking of the road leading to our church for the community, we bought a new transformer for the community and provided a borehole to access water. We also have a school where we send members who cannot afford school fees to take care of their school fees. On the last Sunday of every month, we share rice and other foodstuffs to hundreds of the less privileged. God has used us to change lives here in Nigeria and all over the world.

From ThisDay Life

 

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Outrage As Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo Shows Off The New Tattoo On His Body

Barely a month after Nollywood actress, Tonto Dikeh, said there was nothing wrong with retaining the tattoos on her body despite giving her life to Christ, relationship coach and lead pastor of David Christian Centre (DCC), Kingsley Okonkwo, has sparked an outrage on social media after revealing a new tattoo on his arm. 

The tattoo, which he shared on his Instagram page, with the caption ‘3:16’, has left many of his followers surprised and divided. 

While some supporters argue that faith is about inner conviction, not outward symbols, others question whether tattoos align with the moral image expected of a pastor, citing Leviticus 19:28, which warns against marking the skin.

@iamqneth noted: “The Bible says we should not make a mark on our skin.well I know that the Bible hasn’t changed and God’s word hasn’t change too so all I can say is hmmmmm” 

@ladyrosabel commented: “For those of us that have something to say but decided not to say it, may the peace of the Lord be with us amen”. @iamkingdinero1 shared: “Just know God personally, nó let anyone introduce their own God to you , find your God , know am for yourself’

@sailorojay stated: “It’s baffles me like does this pastor not know it’s a sin to tattoo his skin?? Like I have nothing for tattoos but as a pastor you should be the one person leading your members in the right part with what the Bible teaches. It’s like pastors of these days only use verses in the Bible that favors them and throws the rest out.” @papcy_valery shared: “Leviticus 19:28 Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the LORD.”

Okonkwo, known for his teachings on marriage and relationships, has not publicly addressed the controversy.

 

 

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RCCG Establishes Youths Church In Lagos

The Redeemed Christian Church of God (Lagos Province 64) has established a new youth church, Revelation Church in Holiness, Model Parish, Lagos, aimed at empowering young people spiritually and equipping them with practical skills to contribute positively to society.

Led by Pastor Oyewumi Afolabi, the church seeks to provide a platform for youth to connect, grow, and develop into agents of change, addressing issues such as spiritual apathy, idleness, and lack of direction.

Speaking during the inaugural service last Sunday, the pastor in charge of the province, Felix Oni, expressed enthusiasm over the founding of the new church under his leadership, saying it is a deliberate move to ignite spiritual revival in the community.

Oni said the church’s establishment is aimed at creating “brand new people” who will think positively and contribute to the nation’s turnaround.

He added, “We want to raise giants from here, who will be agents of change. National and patriotic Christians, who will go and turn the heart of people back to God.”

On his part, Afolabi revealed the church’s plans to empower young people through spiritual growth, skills development, and community engagement.

He explained that the church aims to provide a platform for youth to connect, grow, and develop spiritually and professionally.

According to him, the church’s Enterprise Development Centre offers training in digital skills, carpentry, and other practical areas, providing young individuals with market-ready skills and support.

Afolabi attributed the church’s establishment to the need for youth-focused initiatives, citing gaps in spiritual guidance and personal development opportunities.

 

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MFM Lekki Delivers Projects And Infrastructure Facilities To Itedo Community And Environs

Tent Maker Pastoral Ministry (TMPM) of Region 1, Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM), Lekki, Lagos has provided various projects to the Itedo Community and its environs.

The humanitarian services, which are part of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) of the church, included the construction of an access road spanning from Freedom Way to Salvation Road in Itedo, grading of internal roads in Itedo and provision of a borehole.

The church has also trained over 50 people free in various skills, as well as given them starter packs.

The skills include fashion designing, bakery, pastries, and barbing to make beneficiaries self-reliant.

Part of the CSR of the church includes free feeding of the people every Sunday, especially the less-privileged, and homeless as well as ‘area boys’ .

Also, TMPM Region 1 gives scholarships to indigent but brilliant students.

It engages in free medical outreaches as well as pay medical bills, including surgeries bills for members of the host communities, especially the downtrodden that are not members of the church.

Regional Overseer and Pastor, MFM TMPM 1, Lekki, Pastor Sola Oladipo, said the services are to fulfil God’s instructions to give and to take care of the less-privileged.

Oladipo said apart from the Biblical teachings and deliverance programmes, the church embarked on social interventions, and welfare programmes to give hope to the hopeless.

The Regional Overseer added that the initiative was part of the church’s broader Explosive Evangelism Initiative (EEI) aimed at winning more souls for Christ through acts of kindness.

He stressed that welfare and community development are central to the mission of MFM.

He commended the General Overseer of MFM, Dr. Daniel Kolawole Olukoya, and his wife, whom he described as philanthropists and have mandated the branches globally to invest in CSR alongside their spiritual activities.

 

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Why I Won't Remove The Tattoos On My Body Despite Giving My Life To Christ - Nollywood Actress Tonto Dikeh

Nollywood actress Tonto Dikeh has revealed why she would be keeping her tattoos despite recommitting to the Christian faith.

She revealed this during an online interaction with a fan, explaining that she’s concerned about the potential damage laser removal could cause to her skin.

Tonto emphasised faith doesn’t require her to remove the tattoos, stating, “Jesus don’t care” about the ink on her body.

“Mama, if it was possible to take off tattoos, would you have taken yours off?” the fan had asked.

“Yes, love, I would have but I’m stuck with them and I ain’t doing no laser to spoil my good skin. And the good thing is Jesus don’t care,” she responded.

The actress has been sharing her spiritual journey on social media, showcasing her prayers and speaking in tongues.

Tonto also announced plans to be more discerning about her professional collaborations, prioritising respect and value for her work.

She added that she won’t promote or support anyone showing hostility towards her, her faith, or spiritual leaders.

 

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Armed Forces Remembrance Day: Sanwo-Olu Charges The Church To Continually Pray For The Military

The church has a duty to continue to pray for peace, for wisdom in leadership, and for members of the armed forces who protect the citizens. This submission was made by Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu,

Speaking on Sunday at the 2025 Armed Forces Celebration and remembrance thanksgiving at Chapel of Christ the Light, Alausa, Sanwo-Olu, who commended members of the armed forces for their service and sacrifice, noted that the remembrance challenges every Nigerian to promote unity, be responsible, and respect one another.

Sanwo-Olu said this is important because a nation divided weakens its defenders, and a nation united strengthens its peace.

“Every day we wake up to normal routines, travel freely, worship openly, and live without fear; someone somewhere is standing guard. Someone is watching the night so others can sleep. Someone is carrying the weight of responsibility so the nation can breathe.

“We give thanks to God for preserving our nation through another year. We give thanks for the lives of those who serve in uniform: soldiers, sailors, airmen, and officers who operate in difficult terrain, under pressure, often in danger of death, so that others may live in safety. Their duty goes beyond profession; it is a calling rooted in discipline, courage, and service.

“Today we remember the fallen brave sons and daughters who answered the call of duty and did not return. Their names may not always be spoken, but their sacrifice is written into the story of our nation. Scripture reminds us in the gospel of John 15:13 that ‘greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for others.’ That truth lives in the legacy of our fallen heroes.

“To the families they left behind—spouses, children, parents—your sacrifice is equally profound. You carried the weight of absence, uncertainty, and loss with dignity. The nation owes you more than words; it owes you honour, care, and enduring support. We stand with you, and we commit never to forget.

“Over the years, our Armed Forces have continued to evolve in professionalism, training, coordination, and resilience. They have adapted to complex security challenges, supported internal peace efforts, assisted in disaster response, protected critical infrastructure, and contributed to regional stability. Their role extends beyond combat; it includes humanitarian support, civil engagement, and national unity.

“This period of remembrance challenges us as citizens to unity, responsibility, and respect for one another. A nation divided weakens its defenders. A nation united strengthens its peace. The church also has a duty in this journey. We must continue to pray for peace, for wisdom in leadership, and for those who protect us.

“To our veterans, we honour your years of service. You laid foundations that others now build upon. Your experience, discipline, and example remain valuable to our society. A grateful nation does not discard its veterans; it learns from them and supports them.

“As we bow our heads in prayer, may God grant eternal rest to the souls of the departed. May He comfort their families. May He protect our Armed Forces and bless them with wisdom and courage, and may He grant our nation peace within and outside its borders,” Sanwo-Olu stated.

 

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Why Anthony Joshua Survived The Accident - Pastor Adeboye

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, popularly known as ‘Daddy GO’, has described Anthony Joshua’s survival in a fatal road accident as an act of divine mercy.

Adeboye made the remarks on Sunday during the church’s monthly thanksgiving service while reflecting on the role of God’s mercy in preservation. He cited the former two-time world heavyweight champion’s recent accident as a clear example.

Joshua narrowly escaped death after swapping seats moments before a horrific car crash on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.

The Lexus SUV in which he was travelling collided with a stationary truck, leaving Joshua with minor injuries but claiming the lives of two of his close associates, his strength and conditioning coach, Sina Ghami, and his personal trainer, Latif “Latz” Ayodele.

Quoting from Lamentations 3:22–23, Adeboye said, “It is by the mercies of the Lord that we are not consumed. We are alive because of the mercies of the Lord, not because of cleverness.

“I read in the newspapers yesterday that our boxing champion, Anthony Joshua, exchanged seats with someone before the accident. The people he exchanged seats with died. I don’t know why, but the mercy of God said someone would still be alive today.”

Anthony Joshua has since paid an emotional tribute to Ghami and Ayodele in a social media post, mourning the loss of two integral members of his team.

 

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Rape And Other Sexual Offences: Police Invite Pastor Chris Okafor For Interrogation

The Lagos State Police Command has invited the Senior Pastor of Mountain of Liberation and Miracles Ministries, Chris Okafor, to report at the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, over allegations of multiple rape and other offences likely to cause a breach of public peace.

The police said Okafor was served with an invitation letter and is expected to appear before the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the SCID by 10 am on Monday.

In a statement on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Abimbola Adebisi, said the Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, ordered a thorough investigation into the allegations against the cleric.

“The Lagos State Police Command has invited Pastor Chris Okafor, Senior Pastor of Mountain of Liberation and Miracles Ministries, in connection with allegations of multiple rape, other sexual offences, and several other conduct likely to cause breach of public peace and breakdown of law and order in the State,” she said.

According to the statement, the invitation followed several complaints bordering on alleged sexual offences and other conduct capable of leading to a breakdown of law and order in the state.

“The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (DC SCID) to carry out a thorough investigation into the several criminal allegations against Pastor Chris Okafor.

“The Pastor has been duly served with an invitation letter through his legal representative and is expected to cooperate fully with the Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, in the ongoing investigation into the allegations of capital offences and other serious crimes against him,” the statement read.

The police said adequate security had been provided for the alleged victims and encouraged them to come forward to report at the SCID, Panti, where investigations have commenced.

The command assured that the identities of victims and witnesses would be kept confidential and fully protected throughout the investigation.

It also called on members of the public with credible information or evidence relevant to the case to assist the police, either through the SCID or the Police Public Relations Department.

The police reiterated that the investigation would be conducted professionally and without bias, stressing that no individual would be shielded based on status or influence.

“The Lagos State Police Command is committed to maintaining law and order, public peace, safety, and ensuring that all allegations of criminal acts against anyone, no matter how highly placed or lowly placed, are discreetly investigated according to law, regardless of the status of the individuals involved, and no sentiment will be allowed to prevail. Justice must prevail in the whole episode,” the statement concluded.

The invitation follows earlier reports that the Lagos State Commissioner of Police had directed the SCID to look into serious allegations against Okafor after claims circulated online accusing him of involvement in murder and other criminal acts.

The matter began in mid-December 2025, when multiple allegations surfaced on social media against Okafor. The allegations quickly gained public attention amid widespread outrage online.

One of the most prominent claims came from Nollywood actress Doris Ogala, who posted several videos on Instagram on December 14, 2025, alleging that she had been in a long-term sexual relationship with the pastor that began in 2017 and lasted nine years.

She accused him of breaking promises of marriage, sharing explicit content and contributing to the breakdown of her previous marriage.

In response to the growing controversy and viral claims, Okafor stood before his congregation on New Year’s Day and apologised for past “mistakes,” kneeling at the pulpit and seeking forgiveness, though he did not go into specific details about the allegations.

Amid the fallout, the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria reportedly considered sanctions against him, and Okafor also stepped down from his pastoral duties as the scandal continued to draw attention on and off social media.

 

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Multiple Sexual Scandals: PFN Pressurizes Pastor Chris Okafor To Step Down From Ministerial Duties

The Senior Pastor of the Mountain of Liberation and Miracles Ministries, Chris Okafor, has stepped down from pastoral duties amid growing outrage over multiple sexual allegations against him.

The cleric had last Sunday publicly apologised to an actress, Doris Ogala, during a service at his church, where he knelt on the pulpit, admitted to past “mistakes,” and sought forgiveness.

The development follows his wedding to a new bride, identified simply as Pearl, on December 16, 2025, and attended by prominent clerics.

Okafor was said to have gone ahead with the ceremony despite Ogala’s viral accusations of betrayal, emotional manipulation and reneging on a promise of marriage after a long-term relationship.

As the allegations escalated on social media in recent weeks, with more women coming forward with different narrations, Saturday PUNCH gathered that respected leaders in the Christian community pressured Okafor to step down in order to douse tension.

A senior executive of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, who is close to the pastor, confirmed this to newsmen.

“There are more things to be done in terms of disciplinary actions,” the official added.

The source explained that the festive period had slowed down deliberations within the PFN on the scandal, as meetings could not be convened to formally discuss the matter.

“Meetings could not be held to deliberate on actions against him (Okafor). But from the pressure from some of the leaders in the body of Christ, he has stepped down for a month. I believe that before the month ends, some decisions would have been made concerning him,” the official stated.

When asked if the PFN would investigate the allegations against the pastor, the official said, “I don’t think it is the PFN that should do that. We are not the police, nor are we a law enforcement agency. If there is an allegation of rape against a pastor, it is not the PFN that should investigate it. I want Nigerians to get this right: even if we do any form of inquiry, we cannot arrest anyone. This is a criminal case, and the government should step in.

“However, this does not mean that PFN does not act in situations like this. What PFN or the body of Christ can do is what we call spiritual pressure and discipline; there are other areas where the police should investigate. PFN does not have the statutory power to investigate or arrest when it comes to criminal allegations.”

He added that although PFN was engaging the issue quietly, its actions should not be misconstrued as a formal investigation.

“On Pastor Okafor’s matter, there are a lot of things PFN is doing behind the scenes, but I don’t want to call these things an investigation. It is not for public consumption for now. His stepping down is part of the action that PFN and the body of Christ pressured him to take.

“When we saw the enormity of the allegations, and it was already looking like a criminal matter, we had to step in and do our part, but the government also has to play its role,” the source added.

However, the pastor, during his sermon at the church’s New Year crossover service on Wednesday night, said his decision to step down was for spiritual renewal.

“I will be resting. It would be time for personal retreat with God and time for me and my wife to rest,” the pastor told his congregation.

“Since our wedding, we have not rested. We have not had time. We have not even done our honeymoon. So, we are stepping aside to pray, to have a retreat and to rest from this January, and to return better and stronger from the presence of the Lord.”

Okafor said the break, which he noted did not mean he would be totally absent from church activities, would last until February.

The flurry of allegations against the cleric began on December 14 when actress Ogala posted several emotional videos on her Instagram page.

In the clips, she accused the pastor of having sexual relationship with her, which allegedly began in 2017 and lasted for nine years.

The actress said the cleric promised her marriage many times before marrying another woman in December 2025.

In the videos, she also accused Okafor of sharing her explicit videos and photos.

She said the pastor contributed to the breakdown of her previous marriage and caused her emotional distress and financial loss.

The actress also shared some bedroom photos and screenshots of conversations, with videos claiming the pastor sent her $10,000 to retract her statements and claim that a rival pastor orchestrated the accusations.

She later demanded N1bn in damages via a legal notice filed through her legal team, alleging threats and intimidation after she was arrested and detained by the police.

As the scandal escalated, some other women also alleged sexual misconduct, manipulation, infidelity and related issues against the pastor.

One of them was his former wife, Bessem Okafor, who accused Okafor of infidelity, deception and physical assault.

Speaking in an interview with popular YouTuber, Aunty Adunni, the woman said she left the cleric 14 years ago due to the shame from his alleged actions.

In another video shared on Aunty Adunni’s YouTube channel, a lady identified simply as Ebere, said to be a former member of Okafor’s church choir, also accused him of having secret affairs with her.

The lady said her relationship with the pastor started around 2015 and lasted for many years, during which she allegedly had four abortions for him.

Ebere claimed the pastor promised her marriage multiple times but backed out, adding that she eventually kept one pregnancy for him, which resulted in a child.

Few days ago, a video surfaced on Instagram in which another lady made fresh allegations against Okafor.

She accused the pastor of having sexual relations with her and her sister, which she said resulted in pregnancies.

The lady claimed that the children involved resembled the pastor, calling for a DNA test to confirm her claims and insisting that she had evidence to support her allegations.

A social media activist, Martin Otse, aka VeryDarkMan, also shared an audio clip via his Instagram page a few days to Christmas, in which a lady, Chidera Okafor, who claimed to be the pastor’s daughter, accused him of making amorous advances towards her in the house.

She said the situation forced her to flee their home in 2020 after she reported the matter to her mother.

However, the claim was dismissed by the pastor in a viral video that gained traction during the week.

The Lagos State Police Command has said it cannot arrest the embattled pastor because there has been no formal petition against him from the victims.

 

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"Please Forgive Me", Pastor Chris Okafor Publicly Apologizes To Actress Doris Ogala, Kneeling Before His Congregation

The embattled Senior Pastor of the Mountain of Liberation and Miracles Ministries, Chris Okafor has publicly apologised to Nollywood actress Doris Ogala. The pastor  tendered his apologies on Sunday, kneeling before his congregation admitting that he was an imperfect human who is prone to mistakes. 

The apology comes amid a heated public feud that has dominated social media, with Ogala accusing Okafor of an affair, broken marriage promises, sharing explicit content, and offering her $10,000 to retract claims that she was hired by rival pastors to defame him.

In a viral video shared by @NigeriaStories on X on Sunday, Okafor is seen at the pulpit, microphone in hand, addressing the congregation.

“Listen, we’re not joining issues. Mistakes have been made in the past, and I tender an apology to everybody,” Okafor said.

He specifically named Ogala, stating, “I am sorry to everyone I have offended, to Doris Ogala also. I say sorry and apologise to everyone that I’ve offended.”

Okafor reiterated his willingness to make amends, saying, “I’m ready to make a restitution to anyone, anybody, any lady I have offended. I am sorry. Forgive me.”

Acknowledging his imperfections, he added, “Not perfect, I’ve never been perfect.”

The pastor then knelt before the church, a gesture that drew cheers from the congregation, as he continued, “I’m kneeling down before everyone and before the church. Forgive me. You can judge me. Pray for me.”

Despite the apology, Okafor maintained that “everything that was said is not true,” insisting that many of Ogala’s allegations contained “so many lies.”

This position appeared to fuel further controversy, as Ogala responded during an Instagram Live session, forgiving him but rejecting his claim that she lied about the accusations.

“CHRIS OKAFOR, I FORGIVE YOU, BUT THERE’S A PROBLEM. WHERE YOU SAID EVERYTHING IS A LIE. I HAVE A PROBLEM WITH THAT BECAUSE I DON’T LIE,” she wrote.

This followed the cleric’s wedding to his new bride, identified as Pearl, which reportedly took place earlier in the week.

Okafor was said to have proceeded with the ceremony despite Ogala’s viral accusations of betrayal, emotional manipulation and reneging on a promise of marriage after an alleged long-term relationship.

In several videos shared earlier this month, Ogala tearfully accused Okafor of ruining her life following a relationship she claimed spanned several years, beginning around 2017.

She alleged that she ended her previous marriage at his urging and suffered emotional distress when the relationship was abruptly terminated.

Okafor had previously dismissed the allegations, saying he would leave the matter to legal authorities.

However, sustained public pressure and Ogala’s refusal to back down appear to have prompted the cleric’s public apology.

 

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RCCG Holds 2nd Edition Of 'Jesus Market', Distributes Gift Items To Residents Of Isolo

The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Prosperity Assembly, Okeafa, Isolo, on Sunday held the second edition of its community outreach programme, tagged “Jesus Market,” distributing free food and household items to residents.

The event, which took place at the church premises, attracted members of the congregation as well as residents from the surrounding community. Packages containing rice, beans and garri were given to families, alongside other essentials.

Speaking during the outreach, the resident pastor, Bisi Folahan, explained that the second edition was focused on expressing the love of Christ through giving. “This particular edition focuses on the love of Christ. Unlike the first edition, where we sold items at very low prices, this time we decided to give out most of the items free of charge,” he said.

He added, “We want to show the love of Christ; Jesus came as a gift to the world, and if He is a gift, then we should also give gifts to people freely.”

Folahan disclosed that the outreach was supported by corporate organisations, foundations and individual church members. “These partners sent items which we distributed free of charge. The resources we put together for this edition run into millions of naira,” he said. He noted that despite economic challenges, the church intends to sustain the initiative. “This is God’s project, and for every project of God, provision will always be made. We are already receiving support from organisations and individuals, and by God’s grace, we will continue to do this twice every year,” he added.

He further revealed plans to expand future editions to include medical outreach, scholarships and other social interventions.

Pastor Mercy Oloworoporoku, who oversees the church’s welfare, emphasised that the programme was open to all. “We welcome people from the community; our goal is to put smiles on as many faces as possible,” she said.

Similarly, the assistant pastor in charge of Area 12, Seun Folahan, highlighted the importance of generosity. “This season is about giving; as we give, God will also give back to us,” she said.

Head of the Welfare Department, Mrs Faith Okoduwa-Ilembiluan, confirmed that 120 Christmas food boxes were distributed to families, while additional food items supplied by an NGO were given to members of the public. She urged the church to organise more editions in the future.

A beneficiary, Ms Victoria Ernest, described the outreach as timely. “The Jesus Market has been amazing with the extension of low-cost food items,” she said.

Organisers assured that future editions of the outreach would be expanded to include people within and outside the community.

 

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Marriage Scandal: Actress Doris Ogala Shares Nude photograph Of Pastor Chris

Embattled Lagos-based pastor, Chris Okafor, has refused to comment on the viral claims of actress, Doris Ogala that he promised to marry her and several others, including members of his church, while eventually tying the knot with someone else.

In a now-deleted post of what appeared to be a picture of Okafor topless and with a towel round his waist in a bedroom, Ogala wrote, “This is his bedroom. After making love. Full video dropping soon. You said I’m lying; okay. You shared my naked body. Everyone will watch yours. This video is from a girl he promised marriage. She sent it to me.”

This comes after the embattled cleric’s wedding to his new bride, simply identified as Pearl, during the week. Okafor went on with the ceremony despite Ogala’s viral accusations of betrayal, emotional manipulation, and breaking a promise of marriage after an alleged long-term romantic relationship.

In one of the numerous videos, Ogala tearfully accused Okafor of destroying her life after the alleged relationship that spanned several years, starting around 2017. She claimed that she ended her previous marriage at his urging, and suffered immense emotional distress when he abruptly ended things without notice.

Apparently referring to Okafor’s forthcoming wedding at the time, she kept repeating, “No, you will not marry ooo, who are you leaving me for, this marriage will not work”

In an earlier interview, Ogala maintained that she was in a well-known relationship with Okafor. She said, “I practically lived in his house, and all his daughters and his sister’s son know me. We had sex everywhere in the house because he was my boyfriend then, and he promised me marriage.”

In yet another an interview with Daddy Freeze during the week, Ogala stated that her recent outburst was triggered by a moment of vulnerability.

She insisted that she had a “deeply affectionate relationship” with Okafor. She said, “The relationship Chris and I shared was filled with so much love. I knew it was love at first sight because I’m an actor and I understand what love means. We were so close that he never hid anything from me. We were so much in love with each other.”

She claimed that the relationship lasted from 2017 to 2019.

In another video on her page, a colleague of hers, identified as Digidi Dunhill, claimed that Ogala had tried to harm herself.

The actress also shared a “formal demand letter” from her lawyers, Synergy Law, on her Instagram page during the week.

In the letter, a demand of N1bn in damages from Okafor for breach of marriage promise, emotional distress, and reputational harm was stated. In accompanying posts, she accused him of granting her access to his finances during their relationship, only to abandon her upon his engagement.

The legal notice gave Okafor 21 days to comply or face court action. Her reasons remained consistent: seeking redress for the alleged betrayal, financial losses, and emotional trauma triggered by his wedding plans, which she claimed were forced due to underlying scandals.

Meanwhile, in another video, a lady identified as Benita Ahane, who is alleged to be the sister of Doris’ ex-husband, Kingsley Ayanwu, noted that the only reason her ‘brother’ and Ogala’s marriage didn’t work was that she (Ogala) didn’t want to give birth but preferred to pursue her career. Reacting to the video, Ogala said the woman was impersonating her ex-husband’s sister, and called for more information on her to enable her arrest for “impersonation.”

However, despite the fierce drama online, Okafor continued with his wedding plans.

He and his new bride, Pearl, could be seen basking in marital bliss after their traditional and white wedding held in Lekki, Lagos, on December 16.

In a pre-wedding video, Pearl showered praise on her husband. She said, ‎“We met by divine orchestration, it was something that would not have happened by human efforts, God brought us together.”

She described him as her “all in all” and added, “I look forward to having his children and growing my family in the glory of God.”

Okafor equally appeared smitten, and he could be seen gushing over her in the footage.

Photos and videos from the wedding showed the couple dancing joyfully, celebrating, and openly doting on each other.

The groom later posted videos from their traditional shoot and proposal on Instagram, but switched off the comment section.

 

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Ini Edo And CAN Clash Over 'A Very Dirty Christmas' Movie

The National Film and Video Censors Board has requested actress and filmmaker, Ini Edo, to modify the title of her film, ‘A Very Dirty Christmas’.

The Board, in a statement issued by the Executive Director and CEO of the NFVCB, Shaibu Husseini, acknowledged concerns raised by the Christian Association of Nigeria and members of the public over the film’s title.

The statement read, “Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity, and the Board is mindful of the importance of ensuring that films exhibited in the country do not undermine religious harmony or offend deeply held beliefs. The NFVCB clarifies that the film was approved and classified after undergoing the established censorship and classification process, during which the Film Censorship Committee examined the work within its narrative and thematic context. The approval of the title was not intended to disparage or trivialize the Christian faith or the significance of Christmas, but was considered as part of a fictional and creative expression.

“However, the Board recognises that public perception and reception are critical elements of effective regulation. In light of the concerns raised by CAN, and in the spirit of responsiveness and dialogue, we have requested the producer to modify the title.”

The Board also assured the public that it remains guided by the provisions of the National Film and Video Censors Board Act, including Section 39(1), which empowers the Film Censorship Committee to withdraw a film from exhibition for further review if deemed necessary in the public interest.

CAN had earlier criticised the title of the movie. In a statement on Tuesday, the chairman of the association, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, described it as offensive and disrespectful to the Christian faith, calling for immediate review by the relevant authorities.

Okoh emphasised that Christmas is a sacred period marking the birth of Jesus Christ, symbolising purity, peace, love, and redemption. He argued that associating the celebration with the word “dirty” diminishes its spiritual significance and reduces a solemn religious observance to something crude and sensational.

In her response, Ini Edo stated that the film did not mean to ridicule the Christian faith. A statement she shared on social media read, “I am a devout Christian. My faith is deeply personal to me, and it guides my values, my choices, and my life. I would never knowingly create or associate myself with any work that seeks to misrepresent, disrespect, or undermine my religion or the essence of Christmas.

“The title of the film is metaphorical, reflecting the story being told and the realities explored within it. Christmas, while sacred, is also a season that often reveals the contrast between appearance and truth, joy and struggle, virtue and human imperfection.”

The actress also stated that the film had been “publicly promoting” for sometime, with its title clearly visible across multiple media platforms. She added, “During this entire period, no concerns or objections were raised. It is therefore surprising that reservations are only being expressed after the film has been released and duly approved by the appropriate regulatory authority.”

Calling on fans to make their own decisions on the film, Edo said, “I invite everyone to go to cinemas across Nigeria to watch the movie for themselves. See the story, feel the message and judge it in its proper context.”

The film, which was directed by Akay Mason was released in cinemas on December 16, and features Eucharia Anunobi, Femi Branch, IK Ogbonna, Lateef Adedimeji, Nancy Isime, Taye Arimoro, Josephina Otabor, and Wumi Toriola, among others.

 

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How Pastor Chris Okafor Lured Me Out From My Ex-husband With Promise Of Marriage Only To Dump Me And Marry Another Woman - Actress Doris Ogala

A major scandal is breaking out in the Nigerian entertainment industry. Actress Doris Ogala has taken to the internet to accuse Lagos based Pastor Chris Okafor of the Mountain of Liberation and Miracle Ministry of reneging on a marriage promise.

She says the cleric, with whom she began a relationship in 2017, asked her to leave her ex husband with the assurance that they would marry. After nine years, Okafor proposed to another woman, leaving Ogala “shattered.”

Ogala launched a public campaign, granting interviews and posting videos to share her story and seek sympathy. The pastor, perceived as a “ladies’ man,” went ahead and married his partner Pearl, prompting mixed reactions.

Ogala’s legal team, Synergy Law Partners, issued a demand letter dated 16 December, seeking N1 billion in damages for breach of promise. The letter cites introductions to the pastor’s family, public appearances, WhatsApp chats, banking records (including a N45 million transfer) and other evidence as proof of a legitimate expectation of marriage.

According to the lawyers, the public announcement of Okafor’s engagement caused Ogala emotional distress, reputational harm and intense online harassment, including the unauthorized circulation of private photos.

The pastor has been given 21 days to settle before a court suit is filed. As of now, Pastor Chris Okafor and his legal representatives have not commented publicly.

However, the scandal reportedly dampened attendance at his wedding ceremony in Lekki, Lagos, which was attended by only family and close friends. This, however, appears to be just the beginning of the unfolding drama.

Lagos Today Extra! will keep you posted.

 

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Bible Society Of Nigeria Donates Over N2 Million Worth Of Bible And Other Materials To Lagos Seminary

The Bible Society of Nigeria has donated copies of the Holy Bible and theological books to the Baptist College of Theology, Agbowa, Ikorodu, Lagos, as part of efforts to support Christian education.

The materials donated included scholarly editions such as Bibles in Greek and Hebrew, an English dictionary, and a synopsis of the four Gospels.

Speaking at the event on Wednesday, the General Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of BSN, Pastor Samuel Sanusi, said the society’s objectives include Bible translation, publication, distribution, scriptural engagement, and fundraising.

“Our objective is to translate the Bible, publish, distribute, organise programmes, and fundraise. But that aspect of organising programmes is actually scriptural engagement.

“I want people to engage with the Scriptures. And now we have come to this seminary. This is where pastors are being trained and equipped for the ministry,” Sanusi said.

He disclosed that BSN partners with the German Bible Society to equip seminaries with scriptural resources, noting that many institutions struggle to stock their libraries due to high costs.

“Some of the materials we brought here are very expensive, and if you go to some seminaries, their libraries are empty. So how do we equip these upcoming ministers to be grounded in the Word? That is why we partner with the German Bible Society,” he added.

Sanusi said the donated materials, valued at over N2 million, were given to support seminaries that might not otherwise afford them.

“We have many missionaries and seminaries in Nigeria who have no access to these materials. What we have given here is valued at well over N2 million,” he said.

The Principal Assistant Registrar of the Baptist College of Theology, Rev. Adegbola Ojo, expressed appreciation to BSN, saying the donation would enhance the quality of training at the institution.

“It is going to add value to our training and increase the volume of quality resources in our library that our students and faculty members will make use of,” Ojo said.

Also speaking, the college librarian, Mrs Omodele Owolabi, said the Bible remained central to theological education, noting that the donated materials would support students studying Hebrew and other biblical languages.

“They study Hebrew from the 200 level to the final year. These materials will be very useful because not every student can afford to buy them,” she said.

 

 

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Sanwo-Olu Hosts 2025 Christmas Carol Of Nine Lessons In Ikeja

Themed ‘The Reign of the Messiah’, the 2025 Christmas Carol of Nine Lessons  was held at Lagos House, Ikeja, to celebrate the birth and reign of Jesus Christ. The event was hosted by the Lagos state government.

The event, which is the 19th edition, was attended by the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

Also in attendance were the First Lady, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu; Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, and his wife, Oluremi; Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa; Head of Service, Mr Bode Agoro; Chief of Staff, Mr Tayo Ayinde; members of the State Executive Council; serving and former public office holders; and political, religious and traditional leaders, among others.

The First Lady read the ninth lesson, while Hamzat, his wife and Obasa read the eighth, seventh and fourth lessons, respectively. They wished Lagos residents Merry Christmas.

Speaking at the event, the Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ibrahim Layode, commended the state government for sustaining the tradition of the Christmas carol in its commitment to religious harmony.

He said the theme of the Christmas carol speaks deeply to the joy, peace and divine upliftment that Jesus brought to the lives of the people, stating that it was a moment of rejoicing, thanksgiving, worship and adoration.

“As is customary to us in Lagos State, we are gathered again not merely for music or ceremony, but for worship, reflection and proclamation of Jesus Christ, the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords.

“As we move through the scriptures and songs tonight, we are not just reciting ancient history; we are tracing the footsteps of a King. From the first promise in Eden to the humble manger in Bethlehem, and finally to the eternal throne, we see a King unlike any other. He is a King who reigns not with an iron fist, but with a heart of grace; a Messiah who brings peace to the restless and hope to the weary.

“Often during Christmas, we focus so much on the ‘Baby in the Manger’ that we forget the ‘King on the Throne.’ Tonight is about celebrating the fact that the child born in Bethlehem is the Prince of Peace who still rules today and the Messiah who has come to save humanity.

“Whether you have had a mountain-top year or a difficult one, we hope these lessons and carols remind you that there is a Messiah who is in control, who loves you, and whose kingdom will never end.”

In his address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Adewunmi Ogunsanya, acknowledged President Bola Tinubu and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for initiating the Carol of Nine Lessons tradition, which he said has endured over the years.

He also commended the Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, and their spouses for their continued support of the ministry and its programmes, as well as the religious leaders for the vision and spiritual leadership. He also praised the choir and the instrumentalists, saying they truly brought the spirit of the season down.

The annual Carol of Nine Lessons remains one of Lagos State’s key end-of-year spiritual gatherings, reinforcing the themes of unity, faith and hope during the Christmas season. This year’s event was enriched by special ministrations from the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM) Choir, the Pacelli School of the Blind, as well as gospel artistes Kent Edunjobi and Kenny St Brown, whose performances added colour and deep spiritual meaning to the celebration.

 

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RCCG Youth Province Spends N40 Million On Free Transportation For Lagosians

The Redeemed Christian Church of God, Youth Province 1, in partnership with other youth provinces across Lagos, has reportedly spent N40m on its free-bus-to-work initiative, which provided morning and evening transportation for commuters across the state.

Youth Province 1 disclosed this in a statement on Friday, noting that this year’s edition ran from November 24 to December 5.

According to the statement, the morning routes covered RCCG Jesus Palace (Festac) to CMS; Oworonshoki to CMS; Redemption City to 7UP; Redemption City to Sagamu; Redemption City to Trinity Towers (VI); Redemption City to Agege; and Ikorodu to Maryland. Free return trips were provided in the evenings.

The church explained that the programme, now in its second year, was introduced to cushion the effects of rising living costs and the strain of daily transportation on Nigerians.

The statement added, “Rising living costs without a commensurate increase in income have become the daily reality for many Nigerians.

“One such significant burden is transportation — a challenge that Youth Province 1 of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, in partnership with other youth provinces across Lagos, is addressing by providing free transportation to and from work.”

This year, about 10 long yellow buses were deployed, conveying hundreds of commuters daily.

Speaking on the initiative, the Pastor-in-Charge of Youth Province 1, Pastor Oluwagbemileke Adeboye, said the church embarked on the project to ease pressure on residents.

Adeboye said, “This initiative is our way of lending a hand to people. We did it last year and witnessed the massive relief it provided, so we decided to do it again this year in collaboration with Youth Provinces 2, 7, 14, 18 and 20 of the Redeemed Christian Church of God.

“We also find the journeys a meaningful way to start or wrap up the day, sharing God’s Word and praying as we set out or return from work. It is open to all, regardless of tribe or religion.

“Beyond the morning trips, the church also provided free return journeys in the evenings, expending about N40m on the initiative.”

He added that Youth Province 1, assisted by Pastor Martins Olusakin, Assistant Pastor-in-Charge of Province (CSR), and Pastor Abiodun Famojuro, Assistant Pastor-in-Charge of Province (Administration), is also preparing for the RCCG Holy Ghost Congress scheduled for the second week of December.

Olusakin said beneficiaries had continued to commend the gesture, with many taking to social media to express gratitude to the church.

“The gratitude of commuters is evident in their smiles and relieved sighs as the church continues to extend this support to many,” he added.

 

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Insecurity: Oyedepo Rains Curses On Terrorists And Kidnappers

Presiding Bishop of Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, on Sunday rained curses on perpetrators of the dastardly acts of terrorism and kidnapping in Nigeria.

Oyedepo also called on Christians across the country to engage in intensive midnight prayers to confront what he described as “the raging battle against the Church and the nation.”

Delivering his sermon at Canaanland, Ota, Ogun State, on Sunday the clergyman said the escalating kidnappings, killings and terror-linked attacks in various parts of the country demanded a spiritual response from believers, insisting that the “Church of Christ in Nigeria is indestructible.”

“The Church of Christ in Nigeria is indestructible. The gates of hell cannot prevail against it. Nigeria will never become an Islamic state. Never, never, never,” Oyedepo declared to the congregation.

Recalling recent incidents in which five worshippers were shot dead in a church and 35 villagers abducted with kidnappers demanding ₦100 million, Oyedepo lamented the proliferation of violent crimes, describing human trafficking and ransom-driven abductions as “worse than the scourge of slavery.”

“You pick someone and say they should bring 700 million. My God, who are you? Today, human trade has become a big-time business,” he said.

Oyedepo also invoked stern declarations against the perpetrators of such crimes, calling on the church to intensify prayers in the Holy Spirit as a form of spiritual resistance.

“Every perpetrator of these killings and their spouses come under their custody. When this church prays, God hears. Everyone behind it, in the name of the Lord Jesus, within the next seven days, they are smelling. They are stinking. It’s done,” he proclaimed.

The Bishop, who further directed members of the church to spiritually fortify their homes and workplaces, said “Every one of you, anoint your houses, anoint your business places, and sprinkle the blood as a no-go area,” he instructed.

He also announced what he called a nationwide spiritual operation beginning at midnight, urging all members, regardless of their usual sleep patterns, to participate.

“I’m asking every living Winner, no matter how much anointing you have for sleep, that anointing is broken. Between 12 and 1 a.m. from tonight, you are crying to God for mercy and placing curses on the perpetrators,” he said.

“12 midnight tonight, the operation begins. Satan is in trouble. His agents are in trouble.”

The cleric also shared that he had been in a heightened spiritual state ahead of the directive.

“For three days, I’ve been half-asleep and half-awake. As the Lord lives, who sent me as one of the watchmen over this nation, this shall not continue,” he stated.

While concluding with a forceful declaration that divine judgment would visit those behind Nigeria’s insecurity, Oyedepo declared “In the camp of the wicked, there shall be catastrophe, and any member of this church, touched, equals fire and brimstone in the camp of the enemy.”

 

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Rising Insecurity: Fortify Yourselves With Juju, Pastor Tells Congregation

A pastor has sparked outrage online after advising his church members to “go and do juju” as protection against possible bandit attacks.

The cleric, whose name has now been identified from his social media handles, as Pastor Oloruntimilehin Daramola of Omnipotence Mission of God, spoke passionately during the sermon. He insisted that spiritual fortification was necessary, arguing that he could not be the only one protected while his congregation remained vulnerable.

In his words, “My people need to strengthen themselves spiritually. I can’t be fortified alone while my members remain exposed. In moments of danger, faith must be backed with preparedness.”

He went on to justify his controversial instruction, telling members that prayers alone were not enough in the face of rising insecurity.

“I’m a true man of God. Go and do juju so that when they bring gun to your place, let the guns face themselves. Or use stick to pursue them. If they are coming to your church, they should die before they get there. Go and do it o. All my church members must do it — if they don’t, I’ll pursue them. I can’t be fortified while my church members are not. I’m a good shepherd,” he added.

He also referenced past incidents in Kaduna and other locations, claiming that some Christians who called the name of Jesus during attacks still died because “Jesus said until you get to heaven.”

The pastor added that he oversees multiple branches in America, the UK, and Nigeria.

Social Media Reactions

@Crypto_psalm: “Omo make una go fortify una self o. Pastor don share update. Na who get backup go survive o. Make you no die like mumu.” 

@SmartTrollHQ: “If juju was the answer, we wouldn’t still be begging for security. Time to stop hiding behind superstition and demand real action.”

@AnnieSaliss: “What kind of Endtime pastor is this?” 

@Kelvin_aproko: “This one is telling us the source of his power already.”

@Somorii: “Pastor said make una go do dira. Omo, baba dey fear death!” 

The video of his sermon continues to circulate widely on social media, sparking debates about the role of religious leaders in guiding members during times of insecurity.

 

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