-Atafo Igbinedion (Lagos):
A group of Christians, undeterred by heavy rainfall, gathered outside the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) office in Asaba, Delta State, to voice their opposition to the agency’s alleged media trial of Prophet Jeremiah Fufeyin, the founder of Christ Mercyland Deliverance Ministry.
The protesters held placards with slogans like “Spiritual products do not need NAFDAC approval,” “NAFDAC should leave Prophet Fufeyin alone,” and “Media Trial of Prophet Fufeyin Must Stop,” criticizing the agency’s actions as unjust and oppressive. To ensure peace during the protest, armed policemen were stationed at the scene to prevent any unrest.
Most Reverend Bishop Callixtus Oke, Rector of Union Theological Institute and Seminary, addressed reporters, strongly condemning NAFDAC’s actions and expressing solidarity with Prophet Fufeyin.
He was joined by seven other bishops, including Most Reverend Professor Samuel Baba, the Metropolitan Archbishop of the Charismatic Anglican Church of Nigeria.
“We are standing against the harassment targeted at Prophet Jeremiah Fufeyin,” Bishop Oke declared. “He cannot be stigmatized while carrying out his pastoral mission. NAFDAC, a creation of law, is overstepping its boundaries.”
He also called for an immediate end to the media trial of Prophet Fufeyin, accusing the agency of unfairly sealing the church’s water manufacturing facility. “I believe Prophet Fufeyin is being singled out for victimization,” Oke added.
He further argued that NAFDAC has no authority to regulate spiritual products such as water, salt, oil, and candles, which, according to him, are sanctioned by Jesus Christ for religious use.
“Members of a faith community are permitted to purchase sacramentals authorized by Christ himself,” Oke emphasized.
