'Rumours meant to cause mischief, dent Oyedepo's image' - Church says

In the wake of the controversy surrounding the alleged "gate of hell" statement by David Oyedepo, the Living Faith Church (Winners' Chapel) has dismissed such reports.

On Sunday, January 25, there were reports that Bishop Oyedepo had allegedly declared public support for President Jonathan who visited the headquarters of the church at Ota, Ogun State, when he reportedly 'vowed to unleash the on anybody who opposed the re-election of the president'.

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

The church said those spreading the rumour should have obtained the video clips of the service and verify 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 to create confusion in the country.

The statement also said Oyedepo didn't call the President to the altar for any special cleansing or 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 read.

Recounting the visit, the church said, “The President and his entourage arrived 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 President 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.”