Bishop David Oyedepo, founder of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, also known as Winners Chapel, has raised serious concern over the increasing presence of fraudsters across society, including within religious environments that were once seen as safe spaces.
The respected cleric lamented that criminal activities have become so widespread that even churches are no longer exempt from deceptive practices.
He revealed that people now exploit respected names, positions, and faith to manipulate unsuspecting individuals for personal gain.
According to him, the situation reflects a troubling moral decline and calls for greater wisdom and alertness among believers and the general public.
Impersonation Attempt Exposed
Bishop Oyedepo shared a recent incident during a midweek church service that clearly demonstrated how far fraudsters are willing to go.
He explained that an individual allegedly impersonated him in an attempt to extort money or favors from people close to his ministry.
The suspected fraudster reportedly contacted one of his assistants, confidently presenting himself as Bishop Oyedepo and issuing certain instructions.
“We had an experience some time back when someone was claiming to be me and that I was asking for something,” the bishop told the congregation.
Rather than acting immediately, the assistant wisely decided to confirm the request before proceeding.
“My assistant called and the person said, ‘Can I speak to Bishop Oyedepo?’ My assistant said yes, you can talk to him,” he narrated.
The sudden response reportedly shocked the impersonator, who was immediately exposed by the unexpected verification.
Bishop Oyedepo added that the individual became confused and ended up cursing himself after realizing his cover had been blown.
Warning on Growing Fraud
Using the incident as a real-life example, the cleric warned that fraud is no longer hidden but boldly practiced in every corner of society.
He stressed that criminal behavior has moved beyond online scams and street tricks into trusted institutions such as churches, schools, and workplaces.
“That is the world we live in today. 419 plenty in church, plenty in market, school and everywhere,” he declared.
He noted that many people now disguise evil intentions with religion, respect, or emotional stories to deceive others.
According to him, no environment should be assumed completely safe without proper verification and discernment.
Call for Discernment
Bishop Oyedepo urged worshippers to remain spiritually alert and practically wise in all dealings.
He advised that people should always confirm information, especially when requests involve money, favors, or sensitive decisions.
The cleric emphasized that no one should act simply because a respected name is mentioned.
He encouraged members to develop the habit of asking questions and seeking clarity before responding to demands.
“Walk in the truth and you will never be trapped,” Bishop Oyedepo concluded.
His message sparked reactions among congregants, many of whom agreed that fraud has become a major social issue that requires constant caution.
The testimony has since continued to circulate online, prompting discussions about impersonation scams and the growing sophistication of fraudsters in Nigeria and beyond.