In a candid and emotional Sunday sermon, prominent Nigerian pastor, Chris Okafor, has opened up about a deeply painful experience of rejection he faced from a senior colleague at the beginning of his ministerial journey.
A Humbling and Painful First Encounter
Pastor Okafor recounted that in his early days, he actively sought mentorship and spiritual guidance from respected leaders within the Christian community. He attended several conferences with the hope of connecting with figures he considered spiritual fathers.
The most hurtful incident, he revealed, occurred at one such conference where he approached a very prominent senior pastor. After spending time fellowshipping, Pastor Okafor requested a photograph with the revered clergyman.
To his shock and dismay, after the picture was taken, the senior minister collected the phone and deleted the photograph. Pastor Okafor described this action as profoundly affecting him, leading to a period of emotional withdrawal. Although he did not mention a name during the sermon, the account has been widely linked by listeners to Bishop David Oyedepo of Living Faith Church.
The Relentless Search for Guidance
Despite this discouraging setback, Pastor Okafor stated that his desire for mentorship was not extinguished. The experience, while painful, fueled his determination. He embarked on a season of fasting and prayer, earnestly seeking divine direction for a genuine spiritual father.
This pursuit, he testified, eventually led him to two men who would become instrumental in his life and ministry: Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo and Bishop David Abioye.
He described these two senior ministers as pivotal figures who provided him with the guidance he desperately needed. They not only mentored him but also facilitated what he called a “fresh start.” According to Pastor Okafor, they corrected him, prayed with him, and offered crucial advice on living responsibly and avoiding past mistakes and temptations.
Online Reactions and Broader Context
The sermon, delivered on Sunday, December 31, 2025, quickly sparked widespread conversations on social media platforms. Reactions were sharply divided among netizens.
Some commenters defended the senior pastor's alleged actions. User @jibs.art1 suggested, "The MOG did good... knowing your type had it deleted in order not to be associated with you." Another, @bholaromobaba, stated it showed discernment, claiming the pastor could "see through" Okafor's motives.
Others criticized Pastor Okafor's narrative. User @phineatelier commented, "All he's doing is blaming others for his errors. Own up man." Meanwhile, some called for forgiveness and moving forward, with @thegodson_gram noting, "since he has been begging for forgiveness... it’s time for social media people to move on."
This revelation comes amid other personal controversies surrounding Pastor Okafor, including public disputes with his ex-wife, which have kept him in the news cycle. His testimony underscores the complex dynamics of mentorship, reputation, and personal growth within Nigeria's influential evangelical community.
