Prominent Nigerian cleric, Bishop David Oyedepo, has reiterated that Nigeria will never become an Islamic State, stressing the nation’s spiritual destiny must remain intact.

Speaking during a Sunday service, the Presiding Bishop of Living Faith Church Worldwide also prayed fervently for peace across the country and warned that rising attacks on churches and Christian communities cannot be ignored. He described recent killings and abductions in places of worship as “worrisome” and dangerously escalating attempts to intimidate Christians and destabilise communities.

“Developments in the past two weeks, particularly in Nigeria, are worrisome… all the innocent blood shed is speaking vengeance… all the perpetrators will pay with their lives,” Oyedepo told congregants.

He reminded worshippers that he has been raising alarms about insecurity for over 15 years, noting that current events further validate his concerns. Oyedepo urged Christians to intensify prayers, particularly through one-hour midnight prayer sessions, to counter violence before it escalates into chaos.

The bishop emphasised that no group can alter Nigeria’s divine destiny, asserting that power belongs to God and that the nation will not succumb to extremist threats. He encouraged believers to anoint their homes, remain united in prayer, and trust that God will punish those responsible for killings, kidnappings, and terrorism.

Oyedepo also condemned the politicisation of human life as immoral and dangerous, urging Nigerians to stand firm in faith and unity despite rising insecurity.