The founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, has raised the alarm over the growing infiltration of fraudsters into churches, warning worshippers to exercise caution as scammers increasingly impersonate religious leaders to extort money.
Oyedepo disclosed this during a midweek service, where he recounted how an individual recently posed as him and contacted one of his associates with a request for funds.
According to the cleric, the suspect was exposed when his assistant handed the call to the supposed victim, who quickly realised the deception.
“We had an experience some time back when someone was claiming to be me and saying I was asking for something,” Oyedepo said.
“My assistant answered the call and the person asked to speak to Bishop Oyedepo. But before any verification, the man started abusing us.”
He lamented what he described as the widespread presence of internet fraudsters across all sectors of society, including religious institutions.
“That is the world we live in today. 419 plenty in church, plenty in market, school and everywhere. Walk in the truth and you will never be trapped,” he added.
Oyedepo further warned that his images and identity are being used online for fraudulent activities, urging church members and the public to always verify any financial requests allegedly linked to him or the ministry.
His remarks come amid rising cases of impersonation and cyber fraud nationwide, with security agencies repeatedly advising Nigerians to be cautious when approached for money through phone calls, social media, and other digital platforms.
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