Mass Killings Affect All Faiths, Says PFN President Bishop Wale Oke

As Nigeria continues to grapple with rising insecurity and tragic loss of lives, the National President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Bishop Francis Wale Oke, has stressed that the current wave of violence and killings is not exclusively targeted at Christians. In an exclusive interview, Bishop Oke emphasized that the violence affects Nigerians across all religious divides and called for unified efforts to end the bloodshed.

Reflecting on the 40-year journey of the PFN, Bishop Oke highlighted the organisation’s immense impact on the lives of Nigerians through unwavering evangelism, discipleship, and fervent prayers for peace and national stability. The PFN has played a critical role in transforming hearts and minds from wickedness to righteousness, supported by the gospel of Christ—the only force capable of true change, he asserted. According to him, the prayers of millions of Pentecostals across the country have been a vital force preventing the nation’s collapse.

The fellowship has also been a significant player in Nigeria’s social sectors, with Pentecostal churches establishing numerous private Christian universities and secondary schools. Earlier initiatives in health care, such as the pioneering private hospital founded by the late Archbishop Benson Idahosa in Benin, are clear testimonies of the PFN’s commitment to national development.

Bishop Oke underscored the practical influence Pentecostals have in society, where members occupy critical roles as governors, lawmakers, and military personnel. The foundational Christian teachings on salvation, redemption, and godly living taught by Pentecostal churches continue to shape societal behavior and governance positively.

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Addressing divisiveness within Pentecostalism, Bishop Oke acknowledged challenges but affirmed their continuous efforts to foster unity through teaching, prayers, conferences, and dialogue. He pointed out that accountability is difficult due to the many independent Pentecostal leaders, some of whom do not fully align with PFN’s ethical standards. To tackle this, the PFN is instituting national registers to verify genuine membership and strengthen doctrinal integrity.

Regarding the contentious issue of alleged Christian genocide, Bishop Oke took a cautious yet firm stance. He confirmed that while genocide is a reality, it is not confined to Christians alone. His plea is a universal call to stop all killings—whether Christian or Muslim—since the sanctity of every Nigerian life must be protected. He urged government authorities to prioritize citizens’ welfare above all and to end the violence for good.

Bishop Oke further addressed the PFN’s role in confronting insecurity beyond spiritual efforts. The Fellowship educates its members on governance and political participation, encouraging Pentecostals to be actively involved in national leadership to effect positive change. The PFN’s dedicated Department of Politics and Governance works to raise awareness on good governance principles among believers.

As the PFN celebrates four decades of existence, Bishop Oke expressed faith that the founding vision—unity among Pentecostals, sound leadership, and widespread gospel propagation—is largely being realized, with some 65 million Pentecostals now in Nigeria. The vision continues to inspire infrastructural and evangelistic efforts, especially in rural communities.

In conclusion, Bishop Oke appealed for a balanced national narrative that acknowledges Nigeria’s strengths alongside its challenges. He cautioned against fixating solely on negative aspects while urging continuous prayer and practical actions toward national rebirth and peace.