Prophet Nasiri Israel Oluwagbemidide of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Greatest God Chapel, Mowe, Ogun State has publicly apologised to senior leaders of the Christ Apostolic Church (Nigeria and Overseas) over comments he made earlier this month that were deemed offensive and misleading.
Oluwagbemidide appealed for forgiveness from the CAC Supreme Council under the leadership of Pastor Henry Ojo, President, Nigeria and Overseas; Pastor Onaguwa, General Superintendent; Prophet Kolawole R. Adebayo, General Evangelist and entire Supreme Council in Nigeria and overseas.
This also includes CAC General Executive Council under the leadership of Pastor S. O Oladele, Prophet Hezekiah Oluboye Oladeji, General Evangelist and CAC Nigeria and worldwide and the CAC third faction under the leadership of Pastor Ayodele, President and Pastor Professor Ademola, General Evangelist, CAC Nigeria and overseas.
He apologises particularly from the church’s General Evangelist, Pastor Kolawole, about his earlier remarks accusing him of having a child outside wedlock and also committing adultery, which he said were made in anger and based on misinformation.
“I want to beg the General Evangelist that I abused; it was a slip of the tongue. There is nothing like that. I did not hear anything like that about him. It was anger that made me say such things. I plead with our father, Pastor Kolawole, not to be annoyed with me and to forgive me. They should see me as a child.”
The cleric also extended his apology to Prophet Hezekiah, leader of the CAC General Executive Council, over comments suggesting that the church leader was ill.
Oluwagbemidide explained that his assumption was based on the Prophet’s absence from recent public programmes and online discussions.
“I did not try to enter his privacy. I only assumed he was sick because he was not seen at the ministers’ conference and we did not see him attend any programme or travel anywhere from the media and when people are praying for him on the social media that is why I said he is sick, I beg him in the name of God to forgive me.”
Addressing other church elders, including Baba Ayodele and Professor Ademola, the prophet admitted that his statements were made out of frustration following reports of divisions within the CAC.
“They are my fathers whom I respect so much and they usually pray for me since 2021 and we sometimes have conversations.
“He is the one that usually prays that CAC must become one, and when I now see that he went ahead to start another faction that is why I was angry and came to the media to abuse them all.
“I was angry when I heard about the divisions in the church, but I have realised my mistake. I have deleted those messages from all my platforms and told everyone not to share them again.”
He thereby appealed and called for unity within the Christ Apostolic Church, which he said has been divided into three factions.
“I pray that God will join the CAC that has been divided into three to one. Let us think of heaven and forgive one another. The Bible in Matthew 6: 12 says: ‘And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.’ Please, forgive and forget. God bless you, all our leaders, God bless GAC Nigeria and Overseas. Thank you,” he said.
During the annual convention of Calvary Kingdom Church (CKC), Lagos, held last Sunday, Archbishop Joseph Ojo, Founder and Presiding Archbishop, spoke with Adeola Ogunlade on the theme ‘Culture of the Kingdom.’ In this interview, he reflects on the values that distinguish God’s Kingdom from the world, the challenges of leadership within the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), and the evolving face of evangelism in the digital age.
In the wide-ranging interview, the cleric addresses issues of false teachings, the influence of social media on church unity, and national concerns, maintaining that while fake ministers may rise for a season, only those rooted in truth and godly character will endure.
Can you tell us about this year’s convention?
This year’s theme is drawn from both scripture and the concept of the ‘Culture of the Kingdom.’ It focuses on how one ought to conduct oneself in the house of God. Just like every earthly kingdom or culture has its own way of life, the Kingdom of God also has its own values and standards.
For instance, an Igbo man typically doesn’t behave like a Yoruba man — their cultural differences are clear. The same goes for an Edo man and a Hausa man; even if someone lives in another region for 20 or 30 years, it’s still difficult to completely adopt another culture.
Likewise, in the Kingdom of God, once we are born again, some specific values and behaviours distinguish us. Some things are acceptable while others are not. So this year’s convention is about understanding how to live and conduct ourselves as true children of God and embracing the culture of His Kingdom.
What influenced the choice of this year’s theme: ‘The Culture of the Kingdom?’
Our inspiration always comes from the Word of God. Just as politicians may draw their motivation from philosophy or current events, in the Kingdom of God, our direction is guided solely by scripture. The Bible is our source: it shapes our understanding, our values, and our conduct.
This year, the theme is rooted in 1st Timothy 3:14-15, where Paul writes: “I am writing these things to you now, even though I hope to be with you soon. So that if I am delayed, you will know how people must conduct themselves in the house of God.”
There are many aspects of life in God’s Kingdom that need to be taught — including proper conduct within the house of God. Sadly, many ministries today are led by ministers who have not been thoroughly trained in these areas. Even basic pulpit conduct during preaching is sometimes missing.
Jesus commanded us to go and teach all nations everything He has taught us. If we don’t teach, people won’t know. And that’s what this theme emphasises: how believers ought to behave in the house of God in line with Kingdom values.
Loitering, gossiping, or disorderly behaviour in the church is not part of our culture as children of God. These things go against the nature of the Kingdom. So, this year’s convention is about returning to the biblical standard of conduct in God’s house.
You have been part of PFN for quite some time. Shouldn’t the elders of faith within the PFN rise to this responsibility and lead in teaching these values?
Yes, it is definitely a challenge. But the reality is, the PFN as a body faces unique difficulties. It is made up of many denominations, each with its own doctrines and dogmas. And navigating that diversity is no small task.
To be honest, it’s often easier for the head of a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than to correct or instruct some of these groups. Some carry powerful anointing, others command great wealth and with that comes a sense of independence and, sometimes, resistance to oversight.
I have always said, just as earthly kingdoms have their own rules, God’s Kingdom also has structure and order. But within the PFN, it’s as though we are many tribes within one nation. For instance, CKC might be seen as one tribe, just as Nigeria has tribes like the Igbo, Yoruba, Edo, Hausa, Urhobo, and Fulani. They all have different cultures, yet they are all Nigerians.
Likewise, within the PFN, we are all part of the same spiritual nation, even though we come from different ‘tribes’ or denominations. And that diversity can make leadership and unity quite complex. Sometimes when you try to offer correction or direction, the person you’re speaking to feels they know more than you.
What truly unites us in the PFN is prayer and fellowship. That’s our common ground. There are areas where we must be united, especially where doctrine affects salvation. But there are also areas where liberty should be allowed, as long as it doesn’t lead anyone away from God.
For example, if someone doesn’t tie their hair, that doesn’t determine their salvation. We won’t be going to heaven in these physical bodies anyway. As the Bible says, flesh and blood cannot inherit the Kingdom of God.
Do you think the church today is facing an incursion of a strange culture, especially compared to what it used to be?
Well, evangelism, holiness, all of those foundational elements are still very much part of the Church. What has changed is how people define and approach them today compared to the past.
Take holiness, for example. In the earlier days, holiness was largely measured by outward appearance — how you dressed, how polished your shoes were, or how sharp you looked. That was considered a sign of godliness. But over time, we have come to realise that true holiness goes far deeper than that. It’s not about how you look; it’s about your heart, your obedience to God, and how you live out His Word.
Evangelism, too, has evolved. Back then, we had no mobile phones or instant messaging. If you wanted to communicate, you wrote a letter — and it could take two weeks or more to reach its destination, depending on the distance. There was no Zoom, no online meetings. But today, I can be right here and talk to you face-to-face over a video call. We can hold meetings, prayer sessions, and even preach the gospel online in real time. It wasn’t like that in those days.
The revelation of God is progressive, and He is the author of all innovation that helps spread the gospel. In those early years, there wasn’t even television in many homes. I remember I was the first person to preach on television in Benin, on MTA, back in 1975. Today, many ministries have their own TV stations and digital platforms, reaching audiences across the world.
So yes, times have changed. Technology has improved. And while the methods may differ, the message of the gospel remains the same. The important thing is that we don’t lose the essence of our faith, even as we adapt to new tools and ways of reaching people.
There are growing concerns that the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has become ‘toothless’ in addressing certain issues within the church. What is your take on this?
No, don’t say that. The PFN is not toothless. What we see today stems largely from human behaviour and the changing times. You must understand that we live in an era where almost anyone can go on social media and say whatever they like about ministers and ministries. Many of the things happening today are fueled by social media and hunger. People now chase likes and views just to make money. They spread misinformation, lies, and even promote fake products that don’t work. I have tried one or two of such products myself, just to confirm, and they didn’t work. It reminds me of the same trick the serpent used on Adam in the Garden of Eden. It has created a culture of public criticism among believers. Some ministers now openly attack one another online—not for correction, but for attention or financial gain. That’s not of God.
If a brother or sister offends you, you can call and correct them privately. Don’t go on Facebook or YouTube to criticise them publicly. The English say, ‘Don’t wash your dirty linen in public.’ Even if your linen isn’t dirty, once you wash it outside, people will assume it is.
There are growing concerns about false teachings and questionable practices among some ministers today. How do you see this trend?
Yes, such things indeed exist, but the only lasting solution is God. There will never be a time when everything in the Church is perfectly clean. Jesus Himself gave us an example in Scripture: a farmer went out to sow good seed, but while men slept, the enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat.
When the servants wanted to uproot the tares, the master said, “No, let both grow together until the harvest.” At the time of harvest, the angels will separate the good from the bad. That’s exactly how it is with the Church today
Does that mean the Church should do nothing about false ministers?
We can do something, yes, but not as much as we expect. The truth is, fake ministers and false doctrines don’t last. With time, they fade away — just as it happened in the Bible.
You’ll notice some ministries rise suddenly and attract a lot of attention, but after a while, they disappear. That alone shows the kind of seed they were built on.
Enduring ministries are those built on truth and godly character, not on showmanship or material gain. When a ministry is rooted in the Word of God and genuine service, it will stand the test of time.
Look at this church, for example. By God’s grace, we have continued to grow steadily over the years. But some once made a lot of noise — today, you hardly hear of them. That’s the difference between good seed and bad seed.
What then is your advice to church leaders and believers in this era of social media?
We must promote unity and love, not division. If you have an issue with someone, settle it privately. Don’t use social media to destroy the body of Christ. We are all called to edify, not to tear down.
The Church must use these platforms wisely, to preach the gospel, to teach truth, and to build up believers, not to chase popularity or sow discord.
CAN issued a statement over the genocide claim in Nigeria. Do you agree with the CAN position? Is there genocide in Nigeria?
I cannot be categorical because I don’t know the statistics that they used. It would be biased of me, simply because I am a Christian leader, to say it is true. Unless I can lay my hands on the data, I would be a false prophet to speak on what I have not verified. The Bible says we should declare the things we have seen and handled. That’s the right approach, and that’s my view on it.
Should such issues be politicised or given religious colouration?
Not at all. We should never politicise such matters.
The Catholic Church seems to be at the receiving end of arrest, kidnapping in parts of the country.
I believe the Roman Catholic Church, with its well-structured system and national secretariat, is in a better position to speak authoritatively on the matter. They have the mechanism to gather, verify, and document data more effectively than we in the Pentecostal movement.
As for me, I cannot claim to have the ‘anointing’ to make people fearful or to say things that are not true. Even if I’m not physically arrested, once I discovered that what I said was wrong, my conscience would arrest me.
The Living Waters Unlimited Church has called on the body of Christ and church leaders to repent of greed, corruption, exploitation and hypocrisy to save the nation from moral degradation.
The church said without such repentance from the body of Christ, there would be no hope of redemption for the nation.
In a communique at the end of at the end of its 2025 three-day convention with the theme “Never Man Spake Like This (Reshaping Destinies and Igniting Generations),” the church also called for prayers and unity within the church for national transformation.
The church attributed the challenges in the nation to moral and spiritual failure of the church to serve as the Watchman.
Parts of the communiqué read: “The Nigerian Church, once renowned for revival fire, missionary zeal, fervent prayer, and societal influence, has gradually declined into decay, false teachings, and corruption.
“Messages of repentance, righteousness, and truth have been replaced with doctrines of convenience, breakthrough without integrity, miracle money without diligence, materialism, motivationalism, and compromise.
“The faith once delivered to the saints has become transactional, while many believers have grown silent in the face of injustice.
“The Church has, for the most part, maintained a troubling silence while fellow Christians have been kidnapped and brutally murdered. Week after week, we gather as though these tragedies were distant or insignificant.
A notable example is Leah Sharibu, who was abducted alongside several other young girls and remains in captivity for her steadfast refusal to renounce her Christian faith.
“This spiritual decline has weakened the Church’s role as the light of the world and the salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13 16).”
The church added: “As a result of the Church’s failure and compromise, darkness has covered the nation (Isaiah 60:2). This darkness manifests in widespread injustice, immorality, corruption, acute poverty, and insecurity.
“Political leaders and citizens alike mirror the compromise they see in the Church. When the pulpit is silent on righteousness, society embraces unrighteousness and loses the fear of God.”
The prophetic voice of the Church has been drowned by the noise of personal ambition, prosperity preaching, empire-building, and political entanglement. Ritual killings for money—where young men use their girlfriends or even their mothers for wealth—have become alarmingly common.
“Moral decay, unknown in the early days of Christianity, now spreads unchecked. Many young people are turning again to witchcraft and occult practices—vices once courageously confronted by pioneers of the faith such as Ajayi Crowther, Thomas Birch Freeman, and Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola.”
Calling for repentance, the church said: ” Unless the Church returns to her prophetic role, Nigeria will continue to descend into moral, spiritual, and social darkness.
“Church leaders and believers to repent of greed, ambition, hypocrisy, and exploitation, and return to sound biblical doctrine—contending earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints.
“All believers are to live out their faith in holiness, integrity, and love, serving as true ambassadors of Christ in every sphere of life.
“The Body of Christ is to unite in prayer, deep reflection, and a renewed pursuit of righteousness so that genuine transformation may again be ignited in our land.
“Nigeria’s healing and exaltation will not come from political systems or economic policies but from a revival of righteousness in the Church. “
The Presiding Bishop of Rhema Christian Church and Towers (RCC&T), Archbishop Dr. Taiwo Akinola, has called on leaders to embrace righteousness, justice, and compassion in governance as the nation battles economic crisis, insecurity, and moral decline.
He spoke with reporters ahead of the church’s 34th Rhema World Convention with the theme: “The God of All Possibilities” (Luke 1:37). It holds from Sunday, November 2 to Sunday, November 9, 2025, at the Church’s headquarters on the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway, Sango-Ota, Ogun State.
According to him, the annual convention will mark both the church’s founding anniversary and a time of spiritual renewal.
Akinola noted the Convention would feature daily teachings, welfare outreach, and powerful revival sessions expected to “usher in a new dimension of experience in the power of the Holy Spirit.”
Prominent guest ministers billed to attend include Bishop Victor Akilla, Bishop Abiodun Akinteye, Bishop Israel Alaya, and other anointed men of God.
Rhema’s in-house ministers—Bishop Adesina Olufade, Pastor Femi Gbenjo, Pastor Tofunmi Opaleye, Pastor Rotimi Daniel, Pastor Tunde Bolarinwa, and Pastor Daniel Etebong Henshaw—will also minister with Akinola and his wife.
A highlight of the gathering will be the Annual Hosanna Night on Friday, November 7—a night of “High Praise, Power, Worship, and Wonders.”
“Whatever miracle you desire, the God of all possibilities will surely make it happen,” Akinola declared.
Turning to national issues, Archbishop Akinola used the occasion to address Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges, urging the government to govern with integrity and compassion.
While commending recent GDP growth figures from the National Bureau of Statistics, he lamented that millions of Nigerians still suffer poverty, inflation, and unemployment.
“Growth must be inclusive, allowing every Nigerian to share in the fruits of development,” he stressed, calling for transparent fiscal management and corruption-free governance.
Expressing concerns over attacks on Christians and worship centres, Akinola referenced the Open Doors International World Watch List 2024, which ranked Nigeria sixth globally for Christian persecution.
“We call on the government to uphold freedom of religion and protect all worship centres,” he said, emphasizing that true peace “must be built on justice.”
He also decried the rising wave of banditry, insurgency, and abductions, citing the West Africa Security Tracker report that recorded over 550 deaths in May 2025 alone.
He called for comprehensive security reforms, community policing and better welfare for security operatives.
He described Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit as “a major brake on progress” and criticized the country’s rising debt profile, which hit ₦149.39 trillion in March 2025.
“Borrowing should fund productive ventures, not consumption. Stewardship must be guided by moral responsibility before God,” he warned.
Akinola concluded his address with a message of hope and renewal, declaring that Nigeria’s destiny can still be restored through repentance, integrity, and collective action.
“We believe that Nigeria’s story is not over. With righteousness and unity, this nation shall rise again,” he said, quoting 2 Chronicles 7:14:
“If my people who are called by my name shall humble themselves and pray… then will I hear from heaven and heal their land.”
He prayed for peace, justice, and prosperity across the nation, urging Nigerians to be “agents of positive change” in their communities.
A participant in the ongoing Hallelujah Challenge 2025, Jesulade Elizabeth claimed an anonymous donor gifted her a brand-new HP laptop mere hours after Day 15’s themed session.
The global online praise and worship event, led by gospel minister Nathaniel Bassey, drew over one million views on October 21, with participants worldwide dressing as their prayer points in the viral “Dress Like Your Miracle” segment.
In a post on X, Jesulade expressed anticipation for the night, writing, “See ya tonight. I’m so sat. I’ll be coming back to these, I know. #HallelujahChallenge2025″.
Responding promptly, gadget vendor announced, “Dear Jesulade, Anon just ordered a brand new hp laptop for you. Kindly check your DM. Thank you.”
Overjoyed, Jesulade replied, “You guys. 1/2 has been answered in less than 24 hours. What God cannot do doesn’t exist”.
The Hallelujah Challenge, which began in 2017 as a modest Instagram Live and has since ballooned into a massive faith movement, encourages believers to visualize breakthroughs through creative acts like dressing in attire symbolising their desires, be it a job uniform, wedding gown, or, a fake baby bump for women trying to conceive.
Similar testimonies flooded social media, including a nurse donning scrubs for an internship breakthrough and a woman manifesting twins with a fake baby bump.
The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Abuja Chapter, celebrated its 40th anniversary with a special award service held at the Redeemed Christian Church of God (City of David) Auditorium in Utako, Abuja.
The event, themed around reflection, renewal, and honour, featured a welcome address by the 10th chairman of PFN-FCT, Apostle Israel W. Abam, who expressed gratitude to God for the fellowship’s four-decade journey and the grace that has sustained it.
Apostle Abam noted that the milestone provided an opportunity to acknowledge the founding fathers’ role in fostering a spiritual revival that allowed the Holy Spirit to take root in Nigeria, shaping the nation’s gospel culture.
He urged members to reflect on PFN’s impact in redefining Nigeria’s moral and cultural values, lamenting the erosion of these standards and the resulting spread of corruption.
Calling for the rekindling of the “Pentecostal Fire” that once defined the church with genuine miracles, signs, and wonders, Abam appealed for a return to authenticity in ministry and the avoidance of manipulative practices.
The chairman also unveiled the William Okoye House Project — a new administrative, spiritual, and leadership hub for PFN in the FCT.
Named after the fellowship’s first FCT chairman and one of its founding fathers, the project aims to preserve PFN’s legacy and heritage.
He also paid tribute to the late Papa Uma Ukpai, describing his passing as an irreplaceable loss to the Christian community.
Abam reaffirmed PFN’s commitment to peace and encouraged members to stand against injustice peacefully and responsibly.
The highlight of the celebration was the presentation of awards to distinguished members and leaders for their outstanding service to the fellowship, God, and humanity.
Apostle Abam concluded the event with prayers for God’s continued favor upon attendees and their safe return home.
The 40th-anniversary celebration reaffirmed PFN’s dedication to its founding principles and spiritual mission as it charts the path forward.
The General Overseer of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries Worldwide, Dr. Daniel Kolawole Olukoya, has recently dedicated a one-storey building chapel, built by the MFM Tent Makers Pastoral Ministry Lagos Region 15, Victoria Island, for use by the students at the King’s College, Lagos.
Olukoya, during the well-attended brief ceremony, emphasised that God does not need you to know any big or influential person to help you, or move you to the next level; “He uses the unexpected things of this world to help whoever He wants to help,” the man of God said.
“God does not need VIPs (Very Important Persons) to promote you; God does not need to go to something big to push you forward. God can use somebody that you do not even know; somebody that is small, to move you to your next level,” he emphasised.
He charged the staff and students of the school, who filled the hall to pray: ‘O God, raise a voice for me where I have no voice,’ as he declared that God can use servants to move one forward.
The General Overseer cited his personal experience, whereby he went to submit his application form for the Commonwealth scholarship to study abroad, after two months of the closure of the form’s submission.
According to him, when he got to the office to submit his application for the scholarship, the official he met in the office made a jest of him for coming to submit the form two months after the official closing date to do so, and they drove him out of their office.
Dejected and downcast, the young Olukoya said that he went to stand at the entrance of the office, where he was bemoaning his fate, when a young man, carrying food plates, came out of the premises and enquired of him what he was doing at the entrance to the premises.
Olukoya said that he explained his mission to the man, who asked what class of certificate he had and to which he responded that he had a first class. On hearing this, the man told him to wait for him, with a promise to assist him in submitting the form once he returned from his errand.
This promise, the messenger fulfilled by taking Olukoya to his boss, who happened to be the one in charge of the Commonwealth scholarship beneficiary’s selection. That was how Olukoya was offered a scholarship to do his doctorate in the United Kingdom. God used a messenger to help him fulfil his destiny.
“God raised a voice for me where I had no voice,” the man of God stressed and charged the audience to pray a simple prayer point, ‘God, raise a voice for me where I have no voice.’ Olukoya charged the students to do whatever they do very well, so that somebody can make a recommendation of them, even behind them.
According to him, “There are three pillars of success. One, if you want to be great in any subject, the trick is that you must be a master of that subject. Once you master that subject, you will be great at that subject.
Number two is that anything you know how to do and you do well, wherever you are, people will look for you. People will cross the borders to look for you, and number three is that everybody created by God is a solution to a problem, and wherever you are, people will come to look for you.
The event, which was attended by senior pastors in the MFM Tent Makers Pastoral Ministries, led by Pastor Clement Imoru, also had in attendance the principal, vice principal and all senior teachers at the King’s College, who expressed excitement and appreciation at the kind gesture of the MFM Ministries.
It is noteworthy that the Ministry has provided similar gestures in the University of Lagos Staff School, the Methodist Boys High School, and the Queen’s College, while more are in the pipeline, as part of the corporate social responsibility of MFM.
Stakeholders at the InnerCity Mission Global Roundtable Conference have urged individuals, governments, and international organizations to take urgent, coordinated action to end hunger and poverty—describing both as systemic injustices that rob people of their dignity and potential.
The conference, held recently in Lagos to mark World Food Day and the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, was organized by the InnerCity Mission. It brought together federal lawmakers, civil society leaders, clerics, institutional partners, and intergovernmental representatives to chart sustainable solutions for social transformation.
Participants also toured the first out of six InnerCity Mission Food Bank and its 100% free school in Ikeja, where hundreds of vulnerable children receive education, daily meals, and healthcare at no cost.
Speaking at the event, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, Founder of the InnerCity Mission, described the forum as a “call to collective responsibility,” aimed at challenging global systems and inspiring transformative action.
“Hunger and poverty are not just economic conditions—they are systemic injustices deliberately perpetuated by structures that limit human potential and deny people their God-given right to live with dignity,” he said.
Represented by Pastor Arise Emmanuel, Oyakhilome emphasized that behind every statistic of hunger lies a human story.
“Every figure of a hungry child or a family living below the poverty line represents interrupted dreams, lost opportunities, and preventable suffering,” he stated.
He noted that the Chris Oyakhilome Foundation International (COFI) continues to tackle these challenges through three key pillars—access, influence, and control.
“Access allows us to deliver food, education, healthcare, and social protection to communities. Influence helps us shape national and global policies, while control empowers local communities to take charge of their own future,” he explained.
Highlighting the mission’s global footprint, Oyakhilome revealed that the InnerCity Mission Network currently operates 19 free schools across Nigeria, Malawi, Fiji, Liberia, Uganda, the Central African Republic, and India, providing children with education, meals, school supplies, and healthcare. He added that the mission has a target to distribute seven billion free meals in 2025 and five billion free meals has so far been distributed globally.
In her remarks, Pastor Omoh Alabi, Director of the InnerCity Mission for Children, said the organization’s impact proves that local solutions can address global challenges.
“We don’t always have to look abroad for help. Hunger is a global problem, but we have demonstrated that distributing billions of meals is achievable with local innovation and collaboration,” she said.
Alabi called for renewed investment in agriculture and youth engagement in the sector, describing it as a “dignified and divine profession.”
“God has given us fertile land. When we sow, food will come. The solution is within us—we only need to act,” she added.
She also urged policymakers to provide tax incentives for organizations addressing hunger, strengthen food supply chains, and create policies that make agriculture attractive and sustainable.
In her words, Ms. Augustina Ogbuigwe, Manager of the InnerCity Mission Food Bank, described the facility as “the house that houses all the food programs of the InnerCity Mission for Children,” serving as a lifeline to orphanages, schools, families, and entire communities through structured feeding programme and outreach initiatives.
“From here, we serve orphanages, school-age children in our free education programme, and families enrolled in our Family Support Programme,” she explained. “We also carry out community food outreaches to reach those in underserved areas.”
“Every month, we have households who benefit from this food bank. We have partners all over the world who support our work by donating food items,” she said. “Every food item here is a donation from our partners, and today we are delighted to show what God is doing through us to help the less privileged.”
She added that the facility’s ground floor is dedicated to the storage and packaging of large grains such as rice, beans, and dairy products, which are sorted and prepared for distribution to beneficiaries.
The conference showcased the InnerCity Mission’s ongoing humanitarian initiatives and reaffirmed its global mandate to ensure that “no child goes to bed hungry and no family remains trapped in poverty.”
Forever in Christ Evangelical and Deliverance Ministry has concluded plans to hold its 2025 Annual Convention and 15th anniversary celebration, themed, ‘Fear Thou Not, For I Am With You.’
The event, scheduled to hold on the 27th, October to 2nd, November at the church’s headquarters, Km 25, Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, Alapako Village, Eri City, opposite GOFAMINT Camp, Ogun State, promises to be a spiritually uplifting gathering featuring intensive prayer sessions, prophetic ministrations, and soul-stirring worship.
Speaking on the forthcoming programme, the Convener and Founder of the ministry, Prophet Israel Ajadi Eri Mbe, described the convention as a “life-changing encounter with God,” where divine power will be revealed to save sinners, heal the sick, and deliver those in bondage.
He said, “This year’s convention is not just a celebration of 15 years of God’s faithfulness but also a prophetic season of renewal. We believe God will move mightily to transform lives and restore hope to His people.”
Among the anointed ministers expected to grace the event are the General Overseer of Christ Apostolic Church, Covenant of Mercy (Majemu Aanu), Prophet Taiwo Abel Ojo; the General Superintendent of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Nigeria and Overseas, Pastor (Dr.) J. D. Onagwa; the Founder and General Overseer of Jesus Liberation Ministries (JLM), Apostle Oladele Johnson; and the General Overseer of Weep No More Prayer Ministry, Prophetess Olubunmi Okeowo, among others.
According to Prophet Eri Mbe, the convention will also feature thanksgiving, deliverance services, and sessions of worship aimed at rekindling believers’ faith and deepening their relationship with God.
• Eiye, Aiye, KKK, others turn regions into killing fields
• How economic interests drive cult activities
For many years, cultism has remained a monster in Rivers State, leading to the killing of many people, including traditional rulers, youth leaders, security operatives and political leaders. Two communities, Iba and Obelle in Emohua Local Government Area, were once sacked by cult-related violence. So also were some communities in Ahoada East and Ahoada West.
“It is a well-organised empire of crime,” said Philip Obed, who runs a non-governmental organisation (NGO) and has been following the activities of cult groups and confraternities in the area. Obed says cultism is so organised in the state that there is a clear difference between the cult groups that operate in the territory institutions and others that exist on streets and communities.
Obed said: “Three months ago in Rivers State University (RSU), precisely at the back gate where they call Azikiwe by Opobo Lane, the Rivers State Police command announced that they arrested three cultists. The command concealed their names for investigative purposes.
“They were arrested with English made revolver pistol, two live ammunition and one expended ammunition. Those arrested were members of the Klu Klus Klans (KKK). So, the ones that operate in the universities are different from the ones that operate on the streets.
“The campus cult groups include Vikings, Black Axe Confraternity, Buccaneer Confraternity, Mafia known as Family Cult, Aiye or Eiye Confraternity; Two Two, Burkina Faso, KKK and Mafait. So, we have nine of them in all the higher institutions in the state.”
But he says three of the cult groups dominate the higher institutions in the state.
Obed said: “In Rivers, there are three dominant cult groups in higher institutions. They are the Vikings, Black Axe and the KKK. Most times in the universities, you see clashes among these three big groups.
“Those ones the police arrested at the university back gate was a clash between the KKK and the Vikings. You will recall that after two, three weeks there was a death at Iwofe. The police confirmed that the boy was a student of Ignatius Ajuru University and that it was suspected to be a cult clash.
“So, if one clash starts in one institution, it spreads to other institutions. If they can’t find a target in one institution, they will look at other institution or areas dominated by students for a target.
“Two or three months ago, five cult members were arrested in Ignatius Ajuru University. What happened? The Number 2 man of Black Axe came to write exams in the school, there was an existing war between the Black Axe and Mafian confraternity.
‘So when the number two man came to write exams, they sent five people to guide him. But the police and the school through intelligence arrested those five people and the number two man.
“Recently, the police released a statement that a policeman was arrested at UNIPORT. Even if they didn’t mention the name, those ones are black axe members. There are symbols that you will use to identify them.”
Besides the campus cult groups, Obed says bigger cult activities take place on streets and communities. He maintains that his years of experience reveal that street cultism is severer than campus cult activities.
He explained that the affiliates are identified as either Houses or Decks.
He said: “On the streets, we have four major cult groups or community cult groups and they have affiliates. These are Island, Greenland, Degbam and the Junior Vikings also known as Dewell.
“They now have affiliates like Degbam Houses. This means different branches of Degbam. The Islands call their braches Deck. Greeland also uses Deck because it came out of Island. Dewell also uses Deck.
Obed recalled that earlier in the year, there was a serious clash between houses of Degbam and a taxi driver was killed. He said although cultism exists in other states, it is more serious in Edo and Rivers. In Rivers, he said, various cult groups control different territories, adding that the quest to take over another territory fuels cult clashes in the state.
Obed said: “The cult groups own territories. They have unit leaders, community leaders, local government leaders and state leaders. If you go to places like the Marine Base and Makoba, those ones are the territories of the Island.
“Places like Amadi Ama, Aboloma are the territories of the Greenland. Places like Mile One Diobu are territories of Degbam. When you come to Mile 3 from Ikoku as if you are going to the UST Back Gate, they belong to the Dewell.
“So, in each LGA, they have territories. What causes the cult clashes is that to gain relevance you must be able to conquer territories so that you will be recognised.
“If in that territory there is a bus stop, the dominant cult group will be collecting the marching ground. For another cult group to collect the marching ground there, you must be able to have fought and dislodge them from the territory.
“Most of the clashes are for economic survival. If in your territory you have a booming drug business, for another cult group to take over the booming drug business, the group must be able to dislodge the one in charge of that territory. The more territories you take over, the more is your survival guaranteed.”
On their sources of incomes, Obed said: “One of their major sources of income is political patronage. If you check the bus stops, those boys that collect money from bus drivers and taxi drivers, it is their sources of income, and they are compensations from politicians they worked for during elections.
“They collect money from the traders in the market as marching ground. It is political settlement.
“Another way is political thuggery, especially during election periods. Another source of making money is kidnapping and armed robbery.”
He further said there is a nexus between other vices and cultism.
“You cannot be a don in illegal oil bunkering without being a cultist. Almost all the drug barons are cult leaders.
“If you reduce cultism to the barest minimum you have succeeded in reducing armed robbery, illegal bunkering, kidnapping and other vices.
“Cultism is a major support to these vices”.
Obed listed institutional involvement, political patronage and sabotage by security agencies as factors hindering the war against cultism.
He said: “Some of the security agencies are involved, and it is a major challenge. If some serving security agencies are members, there will be sabotage on the war against cultism.
“I remember in 2016, a Garrison Commander in the Nigerian Army accused a National Assembly member from Rivers State of siding with the Greenland while a royal highness was siding with the Island.
“So, the involvement of highly placed persons is the major challenge in the war against cultism. Even if they don’t carry guns openly, they aid and abet by their sponsorships and provision of economic survival for them.
“The politicians are the ones giving them markets to collect money.
Obed regrets that many people have died in Rivers street cult clashes. He said the death tolls cannot be determined, because cult wars are not like conventional fights.
“The cult clash that happened in Dioubu about five months ago, we recorded about five deaths before the police clamped down on them.
“A cultist is a potential armed robber, a potential drug baron, kidnapper or rapist. In Rivers State, you cannot be a drug baron, an oil thief, kidnapper and armed robber without first being a cultist.
“In other states, someone can be an armed robber and a kidnapper without being a member of any cult. You cannot perpetrate crimes in areas you don’t own the territory.”
Obed recalled that in the past, some communities were under siege by cultists.
He said: “Like in 2023 after the election, in Ahoada West, cultists killed five men in the community because one General Danger imposed a levy the community should be paying to him. So in the month of June, they failed to pay him and he moved into the community and killed people.
“Before the death of the infamous cult leader 2Baba in Ahoada East, communities were paying levies to him and cultists were installing traditional rulers, youth leaders and CDC leaders.
“But now I can comfortably tell you that no community in the state is under the control of cultists.
“Cult groups exist in the communities but they no longer control them like before. Iba and Obele in Emohua suffered at the hands of cultists before, but now what they do is to come, kill and go. They killed a traditional ruler and a vigilante leader.
“Recently, the chairman of the LGA placed N2 million bounty on one General Cairo and his gang, and all of them are on the run. The army unit is still patrolling between Iba and Obele. They have informants in the communities.
“Obed further raised the alarm that cultism is creeping into the primary and secondary schools in the state. There is also a major challenge: cultism is now creeping into secondary and primary schools.
“Some years ago in Mgbosimiri, a pupil was arrested with a pistol and he said he had issues with the teacher. We also have clashes in secondary schools along Aba Road.”
On what the government and security agencies should do to stop cultism in the state, he said: “The cult groups have launched a campaign of catching them young. They are not only going to universities, they are also going to public primary and secondary schools.
“The government should include in their syllabus dangers and negative consequences of cultism in primary and secondary schools. Churches should also teach the negative consequences of cultism, emphasising the ultimate gain, which is death.
“Our reward system is another problem. Even if you want to grant amnesty to cultists, it should not be from the side of weakness. The person must have shown genuine remorse and repentance.
“But what do you see? The government will say that someone is killing too much and begin to approach the same person to make peace. It is not supposed to be.
“Youth elections, CDC chairmanship poll, traditional rulers also cause these clashes. When cult groups support different candidates, there will surely be a clash.
“The government should conduct such elections in a way that cult groups would not align to support anybody. The security agencies should take intelligence gathering seriously.”
A rights activist and National Coordinator, Centre for Basic Rights Protection and Accountability Campaign, Prince Wiro, described cultism in Rivers State as severe and widespread.
More worrisome, he said, is the discovery that the menace is spreading to secondary and primary schools. Insisting that the only gain of cultism is death and imprisonment, Wiro called on the students to abstain from cult-related activities.
He also advocated the inclusion of anti-cultism courses in primary and secondary school curricular to teach the students the dangers of cultism.
Worried by the development, the Rivers State Police Command, in collaboration with the Police Campaign Against Cultism and other Vices (POCACOV) on Thursday launched a comprehensive anti-cultism and drug abuse campaign to combat the rising trends of illicit drug use and youth involvement in cult activities.
The initiative, held on October 3, 2025, at Community Secondary School, Rumuolumeni, Obio Akpor LGA, Rivers State, underscores the command’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the citizenry.
The campaign with the theme “Cultism, Drug Abuse and My Academics,” was specifically designed to enlighten students on the severe effects/consequences of joining secret cults and engaging in substance abuse; promote a safe and conducive learning environment; discourage youth involvement in cult activities and illicit drug use and to foster a culture of peace and harmony in the community.
Confirming the campaign, Irringe-Koko said: “The Rivers State Police Command reiterates its unwavering commitment to tackling the menace of social vices, including cultism, drug abuse, and other forms of criminality.
“The command is dedicated to ensuring the safety, security and well-being of all citizens through collaboration with relevant stakeholders to prevent the spread of cultism and drug abuse, provide support and counseling services to victims of cultism and drug abuse amongst others.”
Cultism reigns supreme in Edo
Last month, the ugly trend of cultism reared its head at the signing out of some students of the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi, Edo State. Among the students that wrote his final year examination was the alleged number one man (leader) of Eiye Confraternity in the school. Members of Eiye took to the streets to celebrate their leader’s graduation but it took a tragic turn.
While at the hotel where Eiye members gathered to celebrate, members of the Black Axe Confraternity stormed the place to celebrate and chaos erupted. Both cult groups engaged in a shootout. Four persons were later shot dead in different parts of Auchi following the fracas. Among the deceased was a barber.
In July this year, 12 persons were killed in various parts of the state including Oluku, Ogida, Textile Mill Road, 3rd East Circular Road, Ovbiogie, Ugbowo, Siluko Road and Uzama Street. A staff of the Federal Neuro Psychiatric Hospital in Benin identified as Iyamu was among the victims.
Cult clashes in Edo State are mostly either between Eiye and Maphites, Eiye and Black Axe, Vikings and Eiye, Vikings and Black Axe or Black Axe and Eiye. A repentant cultist who pleaded anonymity said the supremacy battle between Eiye and Black Axe remained eternal. He said there would be no end to their fight.
In September, suspected cultists killed two persons, Eboh Enomwa and Stephen Imaghodo, at Iyanomo community, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area,
At Evboyare community, Uhunmwode Local Government Area, a bloody cult clash led to the killing of one Festus. Several other persons, mostly youths, have been found beheaded in different parts of the state. Cultism and cult-related killings have been a recurrent event across Edo State.
During the administration of former Governor Adams Oshiomhole, the late Commissioner for Police, Chris Ejike, arrested and paraded suspected cult leaders in the state after weeks of killings and maiming. An aide to Oshiomhole was among those paraded. The arrest of the cult leaders stopped cult killings during that period.
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo gave his administration a thumb up for confronting and defeating the twin scourges of cultism and kidnapping in the state. This was because shortly after his inauguration as governor, Edo State was plunged into a cult war in which 20 youths were killed.
In a move to curb cult killings, Governor Okpebholo amended cultist and cultism law tagged the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025. It became operational on January 24, 2025. The amended law had stiffer penalties. The punishment prescribed for being a member is life imprisonment or a minimum of 21 years in jail.
The new law criminalised any form of sponsorship or support. Traditional rulers or any persons who aid cult activities will be dethroned and jailed.
Also to be affected are property owners whose premises were used for cult meetings knowingly or unknowingly. The property owners risk a minimum of ten years imprisonment and possible demolition of the property.
Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo, Fred Itua, said: “With the passage of this law, the Edo State Government has taken a firm stand: cultism, in any form, will no longer be condoned.
“The law places responsibility on all stakeholders—schools, traditional institutions, hospitality businesses, parents, and security agencies—to uphold the values of peace and safety.
“As Edo moves to rid itself of the scourge of cultism, the success of the new law will depend not only on legislation but also on consistent enforcement and community participation.
“This legal reform is a bold declaration that the lives of Edo youths matter—and that the era of violence, fear, and impunity must come to an end.”
Several buildings in Benin City and Auchi suspected to have been used for cult meetings and cult activities have been demolished.
Governor Okpebholo further set up a Special Security Squad, codenamed “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers” to pursue and chase out kidnappers and cultists.
The Special Security Squad has arrested more than 30 suspected cultists and demolished several buildings belonging to suspected cultists.
No longer at ease in Bayelsa
Forty-five-year-old Alexander, from Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State, did not start off as a cult member. He was, however, visited by social vicissitudes which turned him into a monster for many years as a cultist.
Alex, as he is fondly called, who is from an average family, joined the Vikings Confraternity while in the university after allegedly being lured by his friends who painted a picture of Utopian world as a member.
He was with the cult group throughout his university days and after his graduation in 2012, coupled with lack of jobs, he still remained in the group outside the campus and became the Capone (the leader) of the Vikings.
For several years after leading the notorious cult gang, he became a central figure in a violent gang that terrorised his local community in the state through acts of theft, armed clashes, intimidation, and other criminal activities.
Alex and his gang members became willing tools in the hands of some desperate politicians who used them to silence their opponents and sponsor them to engage in rigging during elections. Their actions instilled fear and instability in the community, disrupted local economic activities, and led to multiple injuries and reported fatalities.
Like a man who has seen it all, Alex is lamenting his many years involvement in cult activities, noting that cultism has destroyed his life.
Reflecting on his past life, he regretted that at 45, he has yet to marry and does not have sustainable job to eke out a living. He lamented that most of his colleagues he finished university with are doing well in their chosen vocations.
“There is nothing in this cult thing. It is like I was blindfolded before. I can now see that I have wasted over 25 years of my life.
“My parents warned me about cultism, but because I did not know what I was doing, I rebuffed them. Because of the problems I was always involved in, my father suffered hypertension and died. Today, I am regretting my action.
“All my mates have left me behind in every aspect of life. Initially, I thought I was catching cruise, but I have now discovered that I was fooling myself. I totally regret all my past actions. I pray God will forgive me.”
Alex urged parents and guardians not to give up on their children and wards as well as monitoring the kind of friends their children keep.
He said the most worrisome aspect of cult activities is that they have crept into basic schools, advising the governments not to rest on their oars by ensuring that schools are well monitored and policed.
He equally advised the relevant authorities not to handle issues of cults with kid gloves, stressing that there’s a thin line between cultism and other criminal activities such as rape, stealing, armed robberies and murders.
Also speaking on the menace of cultism, a parent and educationist based in Asaba asserted that people join cults due to a need for belonging and community, especially during vulnerable life stages, as well as due to manipulation by charismatic leaders and a desire to escape personal dissatisfaction.
The educational psychologist, who identified herself simply as Veronica, said factors like a charismatic leader, a strong sense of community, and the rejection of mainstream societal values could make cults appealing, particularly to individuals experiencing significant life transitions, emotional distress, or a feeling of being disconnected.
She said individuals undergoing major life changes such as starting college, experiencing a death, or facing financial hardship are particularly susceptible as well as people who are feeling unhappy, insecure, or disconnected from society often look for a place to belong.
Veronica said some people join cults to fulfill a desire for meaning, purpose, and acceptance that they feel is missing in their current lives.
She offered further insights, noting: “Cults and their leaders often target individuals who are looking for something to believe in and use persuasive techniques to recruit them.
“Cults are typically led by a charismatic and persuasive individual who attracts followers and provides a sense of direction. They offer a strong sense of belonging, acceptance, and community that can be very appealing to those who feel isolated.”
She further said that recruitment often happened through existing members who are friends or acquaintances, making it seem more legitimate, stressing that some groups attract people who feel disillusioned with mainstream society, as they offer an alternative ideology to embrace.
In all of these, she advised strong parental roles and governments’ uncompromising resolve to rout the menace.
She stated that cultism is the brain behind so many atrocities being committed in society today, indicating that it is a lunching pad to thefts, robberies, armed robberies, murders and assassinations.
With the spread of cultism across all states of the country, Veronica advised: “The menace is a cankerworm eaten deep into the moral fabric of society. The situation has become a pandemic and something drastic must be done to eradicate this scourge in our society.”
Believing that the baby cannot be thrown away with the bath water, she offered some suggestions as part of the ways to prevent the menace of cultism in society.
The educationist advocated education and awareness campaigns about the dangers of cults, fostering strong family and community bonds, promoting critical thinking skills, and providing effective counseling and mental health support.
She urged educational institutions to implement stricter laws, better discipline, and more engaging co-curricular and sporting activities to keep students engaged and remove their minds from cults.
Veronica urged the government to integrate education about cults and their tactics into school curricula and organize awareness campaigns.
She also urged the utilisation of of media and community outreach to inform the public about the risks and consequences of cultism as well as making moral and religious education compulsory from primary to tertiary levels to instill good values.
She advised parents to pay close attention to their children’s upbringing, provide emotional and psychological support, and monitor their friends and behaviour.
She advocated the implementation and enforcement of strict laws with significant consequences, including death sentences in some cases, to deter cult activities.
