Bishop Oyedepo warns of rising 419 scams in churches

Bishop David Oyedepo, founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide (Winners Chapel), has raised alarm over the increasing presence of 419 fraudsters in churches and other sectors of society, recounting a recent incident involving an impersonator who tried to exploit his identity to defraud people.

Speaking during a midweek service last week, Oyedepo narrated how an individual pretended to be him and contacted one of his assistants, making demands in his name.

“We had an experience some time back when someone was claiming to be me and that I was asking for something,” the cleric said.

The scam was exposed when his assistant called to verify the claim. Oyedepo explained: “My assistant called and the person said, ‘Can I speak to Bishop Oyedepo?’ My assistant said, yes, you can talk to him.

He could not wait to make findings and ended up cursing himself.”

He warned that fraudsters are increasingly exploiting religion and using the names of prominent figures for criminal activities.

“That is the world we live in today. 419 plenty in church, plenty in market, school, and everywhere,” he said.

Oyedepo urged worshippers and the public to be vigilant, discerning, and committed to truth.

“Walk in the truth and you will never be trapped,” he added.