David Abioye & David Oyedepo
Bishop Abioye David’s retirement actually took many by surprise, sparking heated discussions in different quarters. He was, of course, the first Vice President of Living Faith Church Worldwide and one of the most senior pastors in the church. Many respected him as a spiritual leader and a close ally of Bishop David Oyedepo.
Now, some believe his retirement was a normal transition in the church’s scheme of things. But, many refused to accept that as valid. They believe there was a deep state politics that led to such a religious undercut.
Alleged Internal Politics to Humble Abioye
Legit.ng – Nigeria news claims that internal church politics triggered by the issue of co-ownership and the place of the Oyedepo’s son in the scheme of things influenced Bishop Abioye’s retirement. The report maintained that Abioye’s departure was orchestrated to pave way for Pastor David Oyedepo Jr., the founder’s son to come in. He was rumored to have been put on hold to assume a more prominent role in the church’s leadership hierarchy. This move was done to ensure a smooth transition of power within the Oyedepo family in the future.
Revised Retirement Policy to Hit At Abioye
Other reports pointed to a suspicious review of the church’s retirement policy. The retirement age was unexpectedly reduced from 60 to 58 years. This change was allegedly made to shed off more senior leaders like Bishop Abioye and others. It was to facilitate leadership restructuring in favor of the founder’s family.
In reacting to the said report, Dino Melaye, a well-known, outspoken politician from Kogi State could not hold it in. He had to speak his mind as usual. The Whistler reports that he took to one of his social media handles and wrote the following:
“I did not attend Shiloh 2024 because Shiloh without Bishop Abioye is somehow.”
“I can’t understand why Bishop Oyedepo, who is older, is not retired, and it is Bishop Abioye who is younger that should be forcefully retired. God did not retire Abioye, only Oyedepo did,” he added.
Surprises and Speculations
Reports indicated that Bishop Abioye was taken aback by his retirement. Church Times Nigeria believes that his departure was a calculated attempt to prevent any potential challenges to the anticipated leadership succession.
Some sources claim there were disagreements within the church’s leadership. Reports say the conflict involved the management of church funds. These issues may have caused tension between Bishop Abioye and other leaders.
Another points to health concerns. It was said that Bishop Oyedepo had been battling an undisclosed illness. This could have influenced his choice to retire early. And so, he chose to start a process that would ensure his family would be in full control of the church structure later on.
More Rumors Flowing In
Further speculations making the round spoke about family pressures. Some say Abioye’s family had urged him to step down to focus more on personal matters that concerns him and his future.
In fact, there are unconfirmed reports that certain groups within the church are pushing for younger leaders. These factions allegedly believe the future of the church lies in new ideas and energy. Hence, some felt it would sideline them, sparking the worry about losing the church’s traditional values and so on.
Rumor should be treated as rumor
Certainly. And that was what Bishop Abioye did. Despite all these speculations flying everywhere, the Bishop chose to make a public expression of his gratitude for being a part of the church. In his valedictory speech, he thanked sincerely Bishop Oyedepo for his guidance and mentorship over the years.
The Question Now Is: What Could Happen If All These Rumors Are True?
If all these or some of them are true, Living Faith might be in for something it never dreamed of. Here are some of the things that might happen:
Division Among Members:
Some members may take sides. This could lead to arguments and mistrust within the congregation. This is true as some people believe that Abioye has a unique preaching flare, which Oyedepo lacks.
Shift in Leadership Style:
If younger leaders rise, they might introduce new policies and practices. This could excite some members but alienate others who would prefer the old ways. And that would be the beginning of unpleasant things.
Decline in Morale:
Long-standing leaders like Bishop Abioye inspire trust. If members feel he was forced out, it could lead to doubts about the church’s integrity. Believe me, there are stubborn loyalists. And when I say this, I mean people who strongly believe in Abioye. They may carry a big chunk of the membership to go after the “forcefully” retired Bishop.
Growth or Decline:
Change can either bring fresh growth or create instability. It all depends on how the church manages the transition. And this is one aspect that would decide the fate of Winners Chapel going forward.
Abioye Opening His Own Church:
This might orchestrate a big blow to Winners as a whole. Some of its members might begin to believe the rumors flying around. They may come to a conclude that Abioye was retired against his will. If not, what would be the essence of him opening his own ministry, when he is still agile to hold on?
The Role of Bishop Oyedepo
Bishop Oyedepo’s leadership will be crucial during this time. He has always been the church’s anchor. If there are indeed internal politics, his wisdom will be key in keeping the church united. Transparency and communication could also help calm fears among members. There’s nothing wrong if he can pay Abioye a visit in his new-found church and bless the ministry. That would douse a lot of tense and marauding confusion.
Why Is Resolving This Matters Openly So Important?
Living Faith Church is not just a place of worship. It’s a community. Millions look to it for spiritual guidance. Whatever happens within its leadership rank and file affects many lives. Oyedepo should, as a matter of urgency, do what it takes to clear public suspicion. The more he lets this stay, the more he is setting a groundwork that might wreck his work of many years. That it seems as if the matter has died now does not mean it has. Something might still be cooking under. “A stitch in time,” they say, “saves nine!”
Read Here: The best way to resolve any religious leadership conflict has been revealed.
Final Thoughts
Leadership transitions are never easy, especially in large organizations like Living Faith Church. Whether Bishop Abioye’s retirement is due to natural succession or deep state politics, one thing is clear: the church must strive to stay united and keep a clean public record. Members should be encouraged to focus on prayer and trust God’s plan for the future.
Citations:
- “The Rise of Living Faith Church,” Vanguard News, 2023.
- “Church Politics and Leadership Transitions,” Christianity Today, 2021.
- “The Life and Ministry of Bishop David Abioye,” The Guardian Nigeria, 2024.
- “Church Leadership Crisis: Alleged Disagreements Behind Abioye’s Retirement,” Church Insiders Blog. Accessed January 2025. Link
- “Health Issues May Have Influenced Bishop Abioye’s Exit,” Nigerian Ministry Watch. Accessed January 2025. Link
“Family Reasons Behind Bishop’s Retirement?” Christianity Today Nigeria. Accessed January 2025. Link
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