Oyedepo

Bishop David Oyedepo, the founder of Living Faith Church, popularly known as The Liberation Commission, has responded to the public criticism surrounding the retirement of two senior Bishops from the ministry.

The church recently announced the retirement of Bishops Thomas Aremu and David Abioye, who have served for decades in the church.

Many Nigerians criticised the church’s decision, questioning the timing and reasoning behind the retirements.

However, Oyedepo, during his sermon at the valedictory service for Bishop Aremu, made it clear that the decision was in accordance with the church’s long-standing operational guidelines.

He explained that the guidelines, including the church’s Administrative Policy of 1998, were revised in 2001, and further refined in 2024 under what is known as The Mandate.

According to Oyedepo, the policies are guided by divine order, and not subject to public scrutiny.

Addressing the critics, Oyedepo urged them to “study to be quiet” and focus on their own concerns rather than meddling in the church’s internal matters.

His words: “My advice to commentators is to study to be quiet and mind your business. It is wisdom to learn what is working and find out what makes it work. Everything works here.”

He encouraged Bishop Aremu to remain connected to the church for continued spiritual growth and grace while advising him not to be swayed by negative criticism.

Bishop David Oyedepo, the Chancellor of Covenant University said he has never earned any wages from the university since it’s inception in 2001.

Oyedepo disclosed this during the university’s 19th convocation, Instead he emphasized that the success stories and personal growth of the students have been his true rewards.

The convocation, held to confer First and Higher Degrees and present prizes, saw a total of 1,607 students graduate, including 339 first-class honors, 762 second-class upper honors, 330 second-class lower honors, 25 third-class, and 151 from postgraduate programs.

Reflecting on the transformative journeys of Covenant University graduates, Oyedepo noted their significant impact in various industries such as aviation, fashion, banking, and ICT. “I said this before God.

I have not earned any wages from Covenant University since inception. Your testimonies of success and breakthroughs in different fields of endeavor have been my earnings and wages,” he stated.

Oyedepo stressed that his motivation was never about personal gain but about contributing meaningfully to society.

He encouraged the students to focus on their contributions to society rather than seeking personal rewards.

“You are created to be a contributor. Find a place to contribute. You cannot be a contributor and be a failure. You will be part of the solution and not those who are problems,” he asserted.

In a hopeful message about the future of Nigeria, Oyedepo encouraged students to remain committed to God’s plan, emphasizing the importance of being in the center of that purpose.

“We will see a brand new Nigeria. Don’t jump the fence. Your star is where you belong. A commitment to be in the center of God’s plan is very essential,” he noted.

The Vice Chancellor of Covenant University, Professor Abiodun Adebayo, expressed gratitude for the graduating class, known as the “Eagles 2024,” highlighting their potential as future leaders.

He stated, “The University is immensely grateful to God as another cohort of new generation leaders are being unleashed in the ecosphere as agents of positive change in our nation, continent, and the world.”

In his remarks, former Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole, described the day as special, noting that he had a child graduating with first-class honors from the institution.

He praised Covenant University for its character-building efforts, stating, “The discipline is outstanding, and it is the only way to move our nation forward. You have set an example, and we are inspired. It is nothing short of a miracle.”

Oba Adeyemi Obalalenge, the Olota of Ota, acknowledged Covenant University’s significant influence on the town, stating it has made Ota a desirable location globally.

He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve as a lecturer and encouraged the students to soar higher in their future endeavors.