Founder of Living Faith Church, Bishop David Oyedepo, has issued a firm response to public criticism following the retirement of two of the church’s long-serving vice presidents, Bishops Thomas Aremu and David Abioye. Speaking during Bishop Aremu’s valedictory service on October 15, 2024, at Winners Chapel in Orita Bashorun, Oyedepo dismissed the controversy surrounding the decision, advising critics to “mind their business.”
The church recently announced the retirement of Aremu and Abioye, who had served for over three and four decades, respectively, as part of its organizational structure. The move sparked online debates, with some questioning the timing and nature of the decision.
In response, Oyedepo defended the church’s retirement policy, explaining that it was based on well-established administrative guidelines. He noted that the Administrative Policy of 1998 was reviewed in 2001, and the church’s Mandate of 2012 was revised in 2024, ensuring all changes followed divine principles and operational standards.
“It is wisdom to learn what is working and find out what makes it work,” Oyedepo stated, reiterating that the church adheres to its spiritual and administrative processes.
He also referenced Genesis 49:26 to emphasize that pastors do not have personal inheritance in their ministerial roles, urging his retired colleagues to remain focused on their spiritual journey. Oyedepo stressed the importance of pursuing faith above all else, dismissing external criticisms as “baseless.”
Concluding his remarks, Oyedepo encouraged Bishop Aremu to stay connected to the church’s vision and mission, maintaining that distractions from critics should not interfere with a life devoted to serving God.