The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has firmly dismissed reports of internal discord under the leadership of its National President, Archbishop Wale Oke, describing the allegations as baseless and aimed at disrupting unity within the fellowship.
Reacting to a series of claims published in national dailies, PFN National Publicity Secretary Bishop Emmah Isong declared on Monday in Calabar that the organization has never been stronger or more cohesive.
“There is no storm whatsoever in the PFN,” said Isong, who is also the founder of the Christian Central Chapel International (CCCI). “The fellowship remains united, and our national president, Dr. Wale Oke, is leading with vigor and excellence.”
Dismissing Allegations
The allegations, reportedly made by one Mr. Olalekan Bilesanmi, accused Archbishop Oke of incompetence and failing to deliver on promises. Bishop Isong, however, dismissed the claims as “roadside discussions” and an attempt to tarnish Oke’s reputation ahead of his reelection bid.
“The accusations are fake and a figment of the writer’s imagination,” Isong asserted. “In fact, this is the most vibrant the PFN has ever been under any leadership. Dr. Oke has not only unified us but has also raised the profile of the fellowship to unprecedented heights.”
Achievements Under Oke’s Leadership
Highlighting Oke’s accomplishments, Isong pointed to the establishment of a second national secretariat in Abuja, a project that had been on the PFN’s wish list for over 40 years.
“Our national secretariat has always been in Lagos, but now, we are laying the foundation for another one in Abuja,” Isong revealed. “This is a remarkable achievement, reflecting the president’s vision and dedication.”
He further praised Oke for fostering a stronger bond among members and paving the way for a younger generation of leaders within the fellowship.
“We call them the next generation of PFN,” Isong said. “Dr. Oke is a man of integrity, wisdom, and unmatched capacity to lead us into a brighter future.”
Unity Amidst Criticism
Bishop Isong described the PFN as a thriving community of faith, dismissing any notion of internal divisions. He emphasized that the accusations against Oke are not only unfounded but also contradicted by the fellowship’s visible progress.
“We’ve never experienced this level of unity and friendship before,” Isong said. “Those claiming otherwise are either misinformed or have ulterior motives.”
Background and Context
The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, one of the largest Christian bodies in the country, plays a critical role in representing Pentecostal churches and their interests. Under Archbishop Wale Oke, who assumed leadership in 2021, the fellowship has reportedly taken strides in promoting inclusivity and expanding its reach.
Critics, however, have occasionally targeted Oke, questioning his ability to manage the fellowship’s affairs. These criticisms intensified in recent weeks, with some alleging discontent among PFN members.
Isong, however, insists that such allegations hold no water.
“The young man behind these accusations misfired badly,” he stated. “We are stronger, better, and more united than ever.”
Forward-Looking Vision
Under Oke’s guidance, the PFN has set its sights on major infrastructural and organizational advancements. The Abuja secretariat, Isong said, is just one example of the fellowship’s ambitious plans.
“We’re building not just for today but for the next generation,” he added. “With Dr. Oke at the helm, we are confident in our collective future.”
Call for Caution Against Fake News
Bishop Isong used the occasion to caution against the spread of misinformation, urging media practitioners to verify claims before publication.
“Journalists have a duty to ensure their stories are factual and not aimed at causing unnecessary tension,” he said. “We encourage the public to disregard any reports suggesting turmoil within the PFN.”
A Vibrant Fellowship
As the PFN prepares for its next phase of leadership and growth, its members appear to rally behind Archbishop Oke, dismissing detractors as distractions.
“God has truly endowed our president with wisdom and strength,” Isong concluded. “We stand firmly behind him, united as one body in Christ.”
With the foundation for the Abuja secretariat already laid, the PFN is signaling its readiness to continue on its path of progress and unity, brushing aside claims of discord as mere noise.
