Oyedepo defends Winners Chapel’s Pastoral retirement policy amid backlash

Bishop David Oyedepo, founder and presiding bishop of Living Faith Church (Winners Chapel), has defended the church’s retirement policy for long-serving pastors following backlash over the recent retirements of Bishops Thomas Aremu and David Abioye.

In his remarks, Oyedepo clarified that these retirements align with “The Mandate,” the church’s operational guidelines, and emphasized the importance of adhering to established protocols. He pointed out that the church’s Administrative Policy was last updated in 2024, establishing a retirement age of 55 for leaders to facilitate new leadership while maintaining core values.

Oyedepo urged critics to focus on their own affairs rather than question church decisions, advising them to “study to be quiet.” He also encouraged Bishop Aremu to remain spiritually engaged post-retirement, warning against complacency.

Bishop Aremu, who transitioned from a successful accounting career to ministry, reassured congregants of his continued loyalty to Winners Chapel, stating he has no intentions of starting a separate church. Bishop Abioye’s farewell service is scheduled for October 18, 2024, marking another significant leadership transition for the church.