By Adeyinka Adeniran
Stakeholders of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) have expressed outrage over the negative media campaign allegedly aimed at leadership of its President, Bishop Francis Wale Oke.
Spokesman of the group, Dr. Emmah Gospel Isong who described the effort as baseless said it is driven by selfish political motives.
He said the negative media campaign allegedly aimed at discrediting the leadership tenure on allegations that are unfounded is an attempt to distort the truth and sow discord within the fellowship, noting that such antic will ultimately fail.
Apparently responding to a publication on Sunday, January 26, titled, “Rumbling in PFN: Why Bishop Wale Oke may not be reelected,” Dr Isong clarified the misrepresentation of remarks attributed to Archbishop Margaret Idahosa. According to him, the report falsely suggested that the Archbishop accused Bishop Wale Oke of failing to fulfill promises.
Isong who is the PFN’s National Publicity Secretary, refuting the claims, explained that Archbishop Idahosa’s comments during Dr. David Oyedepo’s 70th birthday celebration were lighthearted and not meant as criticism.
He said, “Mama Idahosa was teasing Bishop Wale Oke like a mother speaking to her son, asking him not to forget or abandon her. It was a joke, not an accusation.”
The PFN spokesman described the publication as a deliberate attempt to tarnish the president’s image ahead of the February 2025 biennial conference, where Bishop Wale Oke is eligible for reelection after completing his first two-year term.
He said Bishop Wale Oke’s leadership has introduced various initiatives that has transformed the Fellowship for better, highlighting same to include: unity and peace, youth Development, infrastructure development, spiritual revitalisation and spiritual revitalisation among others.
“Unity and peace: Under his leadership, the PFN has achieved unprecedented levels of unity and friendship across its 36 state chapters and 774 local government chapters.
“Youth Development: Bishop Wale Oke introduced the “Generation Next” initiative to raise a new generation of PFN leaders.
“Infrastructure Development: The fellowship secured a parcel of land for its second National Secretariat in Abuja, complementing its Lagos headquarters.
“Spiritual Revitalization: He instituted a 40-day national prayer and fasting program for Nigeria, reinvigorating the spiritual commitment of the PFN.
“Strengthened Administration: His inclusive leadership style has fostered collaboration within the National Advisory Council and National Executive Council.”
Reacting to the allegations, Dr. Isong dismissed accusations of incompetence as baseless, calling the report a “misfired propaganda piece.” He emphasized that PFN leadership is chosen through prayer and divine guidance, not public politicking.
“Our election process is seamless and guided by the Holy Spirit. Leaders like Bishop Wale Oke rise through the ranks, proving their commitment and dedication. The PFN has never chosen its leaders wrongly,” Dr. Isong stated.
He further reiterated the strong bond between Bishop Wale Oke and Archbishop Idahosa, describing it as a relationship akin to that of a mother and son. “Mama Idahosa’s remarks were taken out of context. She has always been a pillar of support for the PFN and its president,” he added.
Speaking on the upcoming 18th National Biennial Conference, he said the event will take place from February 11 to 14, 2025, at the Glory Dome of the Dunamis Church in Abuja, adding that the election of new national officers, including the president, will also occur during the conference.
Dr. Isong expressed confidence in the fellowship’s election process, emphasizing that PFN’s unity and focus on spiritual leadership remain its guiding principles, saying “the PFN doesn’t campaign or lobby. Our leaders are chosen through prayer and divine revelation.”
He assures that the PFN leadership is committed to serving the Christian community in Nigeria, urging members to disregard the negative narratives and remain united in faith and purpose.
