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Bishop David Oyedepo, founder of Living Faith Church (Winners Chapel), has responded to recent criticisms regarding the retirement of two of the church’s top leaders. Bishops Thomas Aremu and David Abioye, who have served for decades, are set to retire, in line with the church’s constitutional guidelines, known as The Mandate.
Addressing the controversy during a valedictory service for Bishop Aremu on Tuesday at Winners Chapel, Orita Bashorun, Oyedepo emphasized the importance of focusing on personal matters rather than questioning the church’s operations. He pointed out that the church’s Administrative Policy, originally set in 1998, was revised in 2001, and the latest revision of The Mandate in 2024 adjusted the retirement age from 60 to 55.
Oyedepo clarified that while he retains the right to serve as founder for life, future leaders of the ministry would be subject to term limits of one or two seven-year terms, with approval from the Board of Trustees. He also warned those criticizing the church’s decisions, stating that wishing for the ministry’s downfall was futile, and urged detractors to “mind their own business.”
In his sermon, Oyedepo highlighted the importance of spiritual continuity for Bishop Aremu, cautioning against taking a break from spiritual pursuits. He referenced Genesis 49:26, urging Aremu to maintain a focus on personal growth and to stay connected for the continued flow of grace.
Bishop Aremu, who has served the ministry faithfully after transitioning from a successful accounting career to full-time ministry, expressed his gratitude during the service. He assured the congregation that he had no intention of leaving Winners Chapel to start his own church, affirming, “This is my church.”
As the last surviving bishop of the seven consecrated in 1999 at the Garden of Faith in Kaduna, Aremu’s retirement marks the end of an era within the church. Bishop Abioye’s farewell ceremony is scheduled for Friday, October 18, 2024, in Durumi, Abuja.
