Founder of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, also known as Winners Chapel, Bishop David Oyedepo, has raised concern over the growing presence of fraudsters, popularly known as 419, within churches and other sectors of society.
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The cleric made this known while delivering a sermon during a midweek service last week, where he recounted an incident involving an alleged impersonator who used his identity to defraud unsuspecting individuals.
Oyedepo disclosed that the suspected fraudster contacted one of his assistants, falsely claiming to be the bishop and making certain demands for money.
According to him, the scam attempt was uncovered after his assistant decided to verify the claim by calling back the number.
“We had an experience some time back when someone was claiming to be me and that I was asking for something,” Oyedepo said.
He explained that when his assistant placed the call, the person at the other end requested to speak with Bishop Oyedepo, unaware that the bishop was present with the assistant at the time.
“My assistant said, ‘Yes, you can talk to him,’ and the person could not wait to make further findings before ending the call,” he recounted.
The bishop lamented that fraudsters are increasingly exploiting religion and impersonating prominent personalities to carry out criminal activities.
“That is the world we live in today. 419 plenty in church, plenty in market, school and everywhere,” he said.
@thenigerialawyer “419 Plenty Everywhere” — Oyedepo Raises Alarm Over Fraudsters In Churches, Society
Oyedepo urged worshippers and members of the public to remain vigilant, walk in truth, and avoid being deceived by individuals using religious platforms or identities for fraudulent purposes.
He also warned against engaging in theft or dishonesty, noting that lasting success cannot be built on deceit.
“Walk in the truth and you will never be trapped,” he added.
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