“If Kidnappers Pick You Up, Give Them My Number” — Bishop Oyedepo Sparks Reactions with Bold Testimonies
Bishop David Oyedepo, founder and presiding bishop of Living Faith Church Worldwide, has stirred widespread attention following remarks he made during a recent church service, where he recounted testimonies involving kidnapping incidents linked to members of his ministry.
Speaking to his congregation, the influential Pentecostal leader narrated an incident in which a pastor was abducted. According to him, he instructed those involved to give the kidnappers his personal phone number, issuing a strong warning that reportedly led to the victim’s release.
“One time, one of our pastors was taken by kidnappers. I said give them the phone and told them that within 24 hours, if you don’t release him, you are dead. The place was vibrating on the spot, and he was released,” Oyedepo said.
In a striking declaration, he added, “If anybody picks you, give them my number. If he is not cut down, then I am not God-sent.”
The bishop also shared another account involving a female member of his church, whom he described as his “daughter.” He said she was abducted and boldly told her captors that her release had already been declared.
“Another time, one of my daughters was captured somewhere, and she told them my father said I am getting out of here latest 7am. I didn’t even speak with them, but they began to panic and told her to start going,” he recounted.
Oyedepo used the testimonies to emphasize faith and spiritual authority, encouraging Christians not to live in fear despite rising insecurity concerns in parts of Nigeria. He stressed that believers are empowered to overcome oppression, declaring that they are “raised far above the devil.”
The comments have since sparked mixed reactions, with supporters viewing them as expressions of strong faith, while critics question the implications of such statements in the context of Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges.
Nigeria has in recent years faced increasing cases of kidnapping for ransom, affecting citizens across different regions. Religious leaders often address these issues from spiritual and moral perspectives, offering reassurance to their followers.
As reactions continue to unfold, Oyedepo’s remarks highlight the intersection of faith, leadership, and public discourse in times of national concern.
