Two influential Nigerian pastors recently sent out stern words of caution to those involved in internet scamming activities. Bishop David Oyedepo of the Living Faith Church and Pastor David Ibiyeomie of Salvation Ministries both addressed the issue during sermons last Sunday.
Speaking at Winners Chapel, Bishop David Oyedepo strongly condemned obtaining people’s banking details through deception, commonly labeled “yahoo” schemes. “Nobody playing games has a future in the kingdom. Hear this and hear it forever. If that is your trade, stop it,” he proclaimed.
The respected clergyman emphasized that such fraudulent paths always lead to bitterness and destruction in the end. “You are on a very fast lane that always ends in bitterness and destruction,” David Oyedepo warned listeners.
He encouraged lawful and productive endeavors instead, reminding of spiritual sowing and reaping principles. “Engage with that law and watch how you begin to lay up gold with time,” said the Bishop.
Meanwhile in Port Harcourt, Pastor Ibiyeomie of Salvation Ministries took an even firmer stance, reportedly cursing all those engaged in internet scams which he termed a form of stealing. “Yahoo is stealing and anyone doing it should desist and repent without delay,” stated the popular minister.
The strong words from these senior figures underscore the morality and spiritual dangers associated with online fraud. While some see it as a quick money path, the men of God highlight inevitable ruin per spiritual and societal laws if one does not change course.
For impressionable Nigerian youth considering such routes due to economic pressures, the message is to cling instead to principles of integrity, diligence and lawful enterprise. With continued guidance, they can develop into productive citizens contributing meaningfully to society versus becoming misguided casualties of vices.
