James ObasiChurch Attacks: Oyedepo Warns Christians to ‘Take Charge’ Before Violence Escalates
Presiding Bishop of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, David Oyedepo, has renewed a warning he first issued 15 years ago over Nigeria’s rising insecurity, following recent church attacks that left several worshippers dead and others abducted.
Speaking during the 4th Pre-Shiloh Encounter Service on Sunday, as monitored by Vanguard, Oyedepo expressed deep alarm over the country’s security situation.
“Developments in the past two weeks, particularly in Nigeria, are extremely worrisome,” he said. “There is an urgent need for prayer to stop these killings once and for all. Innocent blood is crying out for justice… and all perpetrators will answer for their actions.”
Reaffirming his connection to the nation, he added: “No one is more Nigerian than I am. We all have ancestral roots, but no power exceeds the power of God.”
Calling for intensified intercessory prayers, Oyedepo urged church members to hold midnight prayer sessions, saying: “Every member must be awake for at least one hour before violence descends into anarchy. A church was invaded during worship, people were killed and abducted yet nothing happened? The God of justice is rising.”
He referenced scripture to underscore his message, noting that Nigeria’s destiny is spiritually anchored: “When God steps in, human pride collapses. Nigeria will not descend into chaos. These are hard truths coming from the burning spirit of a prophet.”
Citing Psalm 85:8, he added: “When God speaks, His word brings peace. I’ve been shouting this for 15 years, and God has prompted me to speak again.”
Condemning the surge in killings, kidnappings, and terrorism, Oyedepo said the church will continue praying for justice. He encouraged members to “raid the camp of the wicked” through midnight prayers, anoint their homes, and stand against attacks on churches.
“Don’t politicise human life; it is immoral,” he said. “Let’s unite our hearts and pray from 12am to 1am. Every assault on the church will be met with divine justice.”
