Presiding Bishop of Living Faith Church Worldwide, David Oyedepo, has warned Christians over the escalating insecurity in Nigeria, following a spate of recent attacks on churches that resulted in multiple d3aths and abductions, saying Christians must take decisive action.
The bishop’s warning comes as international concern mounts, with Italy becoming the second G7 nation, after the United States, to openly demand an immediate end to the targeted killings of Christians in Nigeria.
Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, condemned the “renewed violence” against Christian communities in a strongly worded statement, insisting the attacks were unacceptable.
“We strongly condemn the renewed violence that has taken place against Christian communities in Nigeria. Religious freedom is an inviolable right.”
She called on the Nigerian government “to strengthen the protection of Christian communities and all religious communities and to prosecute those responsible for these heinous attacks.”
Weeks ago, the US President Donald Trump had threatened military action if the Nigerian Federal Government failed to halt what he described as Christian genocide in the country.
Speaking at a Pre-Shiloh Encounter Church Service, Bishop Oyedepo expressed deep concern over the nation’s current situation.
“Developments in the past two weeks, particularly in Nigeria, are worrisome to say the least. There is need for a prompt response in prayers to stop the killings once and for all. You can’t trade people’s lives for your comfort.”
“All the innocent blood shared is speaking vengeance… all the perpetrators will pay with their lives.”
The cleric urged church members to launch into “midnight raid (prayers)”.“Every member of this church should be awake one hour every day for one week before violence descends to anarchy in Nigeria…”
He challenged the lack of action following the attacks, stating, “The God of justice is rising.”
“Nigeria will never descend into chaos.” He added, “When God steps in, the pride of men is cut. Every arrogance will be cut down.”
View this post on Instagram