Bishop Oyedepo Clarifies the Retirement of Bishops Thomas Aremu and David Abioye

Bishop David Oyedepo, the founder and presiding bishop of Living Faith Church (Winners Chapel), has defended the church’s retirement policy for pastors amid criticism. The situation arose after Bishops Thomas Aremu and David Abioye, who had served for 30 and 40 years respectively, were set to retire.

Oyedepo explained that these retirements are in accordance with the church’s operational guidelines known as “The Mandate,” which mandates a retirement age of 55.In a sermon during Bishop Aremu’s farewell service, Oyedepo highlighted the importance of following established protocols.

He mentioned that the church’s Administrative Policy was initially implemented in 1998, revised in 2001, and most recently updated in 2024. This update aims to promote new leadership while maintaining the church’s foundational values.

While Oyedepo has the option to serve indefinitely, future leaders will be restricted to one or two terms of seven years, subject to approval from the Board of Trustees. He advised critics to focus on their own matters, stating, “I encourage those commenting to stay quiet and mind their own business.”

Bishop Aremu reassured the congregation regarding his future plans, affirming his loyalty to Winners Chapel. Bishop Abioye’s farewell ceremony is set for October 18, 2024, marking another important transition for the church.