Delta Pastor Arrested For Criticising Preacher Korede Komaiya’s ‘Prosperity Teachings’
Apostle Festus Alilu, the senior pastor of Word of Power Gospel Church International in Ughelli, Delta State, has been arrested by the police following his public criticism of Pastor Korede Komaiya, a well-known prosperity preacher and leader of The Master’s Place International Church.
The arrest, which took place late Thursday, followed a viral video posted by Apostle Alilu on his official Facebook page, in which he accused Komaiya of misleading worshippers through what he described as fabricated prosperity teachings.
He claimed that the messages preached by the prominent cleric were designed to exploit church members by linking financial breakthroughs and success to tithes and offerings.
Alilu further referenced Nigerian activist Omoyele Sowore’s criticism of certain religious leaders, suggesting that prosperity preachers like Komaiya were contributing to growing distrust towards the church.
Sowore has been vocal about corruption and manipulation in Nigerian churches, often condemning pastors who promote wealth accumulation through heavy financial contributions from their congregations.
In the controversial video, Apostle Alilu warned that if Komaiya and others continued with such deceptive practices, it could lead to further division and confusion among Christians.
He urged Nigerian worshippers to be wary of preachers who promise material wealth in exchange for offerings.
His arrest has sparked mixed reactions among Nigerians, with some supporting his bold stance while others argue that internal church matters should not be publicly debated.
Some commenters accused Komaiya of using influence to suppress criticism, while others defended him, insisting that his teachings were backed by biblical principles.
A video obtained by SaharaReporters captured the moment Alilu was taken into custody by police officers.
However, it remains unclear whether the arrest was directly influenced by Pastor Komaiya or if it stemmed from complaints filed by church members.
Pastor Komaiya, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s Pentecostal scene, is known for his charismatic preaching and strong emphasis on divine prosperity.
His church, The Master’s Place International, has attracted thousands of followers with messages centred on financial breakthroughs, business success, and supernatural wealth.
Despite criticisms, Komaiya remains a popular figure among believers who adhere to the prosperity gospel.
As of the time of filing this report, neither Pastor Komaiya nor The Master’s Place International Church has released an official statement regarding Apostle Alilu’s arrest.
Meanwhile, police authorities in Delta State have yet to disclose specific charges against the detained cleric.
Sodiq Lawal is a passionate and dedicated journalist with a knack for uncovering captivating stories in the bustling metropolis of Osun State and Nigeria at large. He has a versatile reporting style, covering a wide range of topics, from politics , campus, and social issues to arts and culture, seeking impact in all facets of the society.
