The founder of Living Faith Church, Bishop David Oyedepo, has declared that Nigeria can never be Islamised, reassuring Nigerians about the country’s religious freedom.
Bishop Oyedepo made the statement during his sermon at the church headquarters in Ota, Ogun State. His remarks come amid reports of terrorist attacks in Nigeria, including the recent airstrikes carried out by the United States on a suspected terrorist base in Sokoto State on Christmas Day, December 25.
Addressing congregants, Bishop Oyedepo said that God had assured him that the battle against terrorism in Nigeria is already won. He emphasized that foreign interest in combating terrorism has increased, citing recent international support against terrorist activities in the country.
“For the first time in nearly 20 years, the persecutors are smelling,” Oyedepo said. “I said it with a very loud sound of the trumpet that Nigeria will never be Islamized and can never be Islamized.”
He further stressed that any form of Islamic agenda to dominate the nation is “dead and buried.” He expressed joy and confidence in God’s faithfulness, saying, “I’m not only happy but I’m overjoyed and jubilating over the faithfulness of God. The battle is won. How many heard me when I said God said to me I have heard you and I have stepped in?”
The clergyman’s sermon came at a time when the nation is facing security challenges, particularly from terrorist groups operating in parts of the North. US airstrikes in Sokoto State targeted suspected terrorist enclaves, demonstrating increased international cooperation in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism. The airstrikes followed reports of terrorist activities that have affected communities in northern Nigeria, causing fear and concern among residents.
Bishop Oyedepo recalled that when he first spoke about Nigeria’s security and religious freedom, there was little foreign intervention. “There was no foreign interest from anywhere when I said that, and interests began to arise around the world. Finally, the battle is over,” he said.
He also addressed the issue of violence and killings in the country, urging Nigerians to focus on the bigger picture. “Genocide or no genocide is not the issue. Are there killings? Who are the greater victims of these killings? Who are their primary targets?” he asked.
The bishop’s sermon highlighted the role of faith and divine intervention in Nigeria’s security challenges. He encouraged Nigerians to remain steadfast in prayer and maintain trust in God’s protection, especially during the ongoing fight against terrorism.
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, has faced decades of security challenges from various extremist groups, including Boko Haram and other local terrorist factions. These groups have targeted schools, places of worship, and communities, resulting in thousands of deaths and displacements. The recent US airstrikes in Sokoto are part of ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and prevent further attacks.
Bishop Oyedepo’s comments come at a time when religious tensions and misinformation have occasionally created divisions in Nigeria. His declaration that the country will never be Islamised reinforces the importance of unity and religious tolerance, two principles often emphasized by religious and community leaders across the nation.
The clergyman also pointed out that terrorism is a global concern, and collaboration between local authorities and foreign partners is essential for effective results. “Foreign interest in combating terror in Nigeria subsequently increased,” he said, noting that international support has strengthened efforts to secure vulnerable communities.
Oyedepo’s message resonated with many of his followers, who saw it as a call to remain faithful and resilient despite security challenges. His sermon emphasized that faith, prayer, and unity are key weapons in overcoming the threats posed by extremists.
The Living Faith Church has long been involved in social and humanitarian initiatives in Nigeria, supporting victims of violence and promoting education and health programs. Bishop Oyedepo’s statement reflects the church’s ongoing role in guiding public discourse on faith, security, and national unity.
The recent US airstrikes in Sokoto, which targeted suspected terrorist enclaves, highlight the increasing international collaboration in combating terrorism in Nigeria. These operations aim to dismantle terrorist networks, protect civilians, and restore peace in affected communities. Bishop Oyedepo’s assurance that Nigeria will never be Islamised aligns with these efforts, emphasizing that the country’s freedom and sovereignty remain intact.
In conclusion, Bishop Oyedepo called on all Nigerians to remain vigilant, united, and prayerful. He stressed that the nation’s security challenges can only be overcome through collective effort, faith, and cooperation between local authorities, communities, and international partners.
“Every form of Islamic agenda for this nation is dead and buried,” Oyedepo reiterated. “The battle is won.”