“Men of God or Men of Deceit? Chris Okafor’s Marriage Exposes Hypocrisy in Nigerian Church” – Iche
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“Men of God or Men of Deceit? Chris Okafor’s Marriage Exposes Hypocrisy in Nigerian Church” – Iche
“…Questions Faith Leaders’ Integrity”
By Naomi Onome
Prominent Nigerian preacher Pst Chris Okafor, the founder of the Mountain of Liberation and Miracle Ministry, also known as Liberation City faces scathing criticism for allegedly practising what he preaches against – polygamy. His recent church wedding to a new wife, while his first wife is still alive, contradicts his monogamy teachings, fuelling accusations of hypocrisy. Nollywood actress Doris Ogala’s claims of a seven-year affair with Okafor add fuel to the fire, raising unsettling questions about faith leaders’ integrity in Nigeria.
Human rights activist Comrade Prince Saviour Iche claims that Pastor Chris is acting hypocritically by getting married to a new wife when his first wife is still alive. It is stated that Chris’s first wife accused him of domestic abuse, hence their separation. Given their beliefs on monogamy, Iche questions why religious leaders like Pastor Mathew Ashimolowo, who officiated the wedding, and groups like PFN and CAN haven’t denounced the act.
The report circling the internet space alleges Chris Okafor had an affair with a Nollywood actress, Doris Ogala, while still married for seven years, contradicting his preachings and biblical teachings of “one man, one wife”. Iche says this singular scenario has exposed a broader issue of hypocrisy and integrity loss in Nigerian churches.
Pastor Mathew Ashimolowo, a prominent faith leader and the senior pastor of Kingsway International Christian Centre in London officiated the wedding, drawing sharp criticism. Iche questions why Ashimolowo and organisations like the Pentecostal Federation of Nigeria (PFN) and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) haven’t addressed the issue, given their stance on monogamy. The incident sparks accusations of hypocrisy, integrity loss, and commercialisation of faith in Nigerian churches, potentially eroding public trust.
Iche said,
“In the context of Chris Okafor’s marriage, the narrative surrounding the controversy is a perceived hypocrisy, especially amongst religious leaders who have gone totally against their teachings on fidelity and the sanctity of marriage. Highlighting the concepts propagated by some religious figures, which assert the principles of monogamous marriage and the moral condemnation of adultery and fornication, Okafor, who is viewed as one such religious figure and a role model by some within the religious community, has allegedly engaged in multiple adulterous relationships, all while still being married to his first wife and contrary to the doctrines he teaches.”
Iche emphasises the contradiction of Okafor’s actions with his public teachings by noting that he has married another woman while his first wife is still alive. This situation, he says, raises questions about the authenticity and accountability of religious leaders, particularly concerning the officiating of the wedding by prominent pastor Matthew Ashimolowo. Comrade Iche expresses dismay at Ashimolowo’s participation in the ceremony and questions whether such leaders adhere to their own teachings or possess a different moral framework.
Furthermore, the Iche criticises the silence of organisations like the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on this matter, suggesting that they should have taken a stance to address what they see as a moral failing among their ranks.
Iche concludes his opinion with a broader commentary on the state of Christianity in Nigeria, asserting that many churches operate like businesses, leading to a decline in faith among followers who are beginning to turn back to traditional beliefs. This critique of religious practices and the involvement of prominent figures underscores a significant disillusionment with the church as an institution, Iche added. Calls for an examination of the integrity and consistency of religious leaders in upholding the core values of their faith.
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