PFN responds to Rev. Omolehin’s claim of being barred from preaching in churches

By Tolulope Oke

The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has responded to claims made by Rev. Isaac Omolehin, who alleged that churches in Canada and Cape Town barred him from preaching on directives supposedly issued by the PFN.

Rev. Omolehin also claimed that the PFN instructed churches in Nigeria and abroad to deny him ministerial platforms.

In a statement signed by Dr. Sylvenus Ifaka, National Publicity Secretary of PFN, the fellowship categorically denied the allegations. “At no time in Canada, Cape Town, Nigeria, or anywhere else in the world did the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria issue a directive, formal or informal, instructing any church or minister to stop Rev. Isaac Omolehin, or any other minister, from preaching the Gospel. We are completely unaware of the events he described and categorically deny any involvement or complicity,” the statement read.

PFN emphasized that its mission is rooted in the Great Commission. “Stopping any sincere minister of the Gospel from preaching would contradict the essence of the Great Commission, the spirit of Christian brotherhood, and the foundational purpose of the PFN,” the fellowship said, quoting Mark 16:15: “Go ye into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature.”

The fellowship further encouraged Rev. Omolehin to provide concrete evidence to support his claims. “With due respect to Rev. Isaac Omolehin, we believe he may have been misinformed or misled. In the interest of truth and fairness, we invite him to provide the names of the churches, the individuals involved, and any written or recorded evidence linking PFN to these alleged directives. The PFN stands ready to investigate any credible information,” the statement added.

PFN also noted that biblical conduct encourages direct clarification in cases of disagreement. “The Bible instructs in Matthew 18:15 that if a brother believes he has been wronged, he should first seek direct clarification. At no time did Rev. Isaac approach the leadership of the PFN to confirm or resolve such a serious allegation. A simple inquiry could have dispelled this misinformation,” it said.

Despite the controversy, PFN expressed goodwill towards Rev. Omolehin. “We hold Rev. Isaac Omolehin in high esteem as a fellow labourer in the vineyard of Christ. We pray for continued grace upon his ministry and wish him success in his calling,” the fellowship said, urging churches worldwide to keep their pulpits open and promote unity.

In conclusion, PFN reaffirmed its commitment to evangelism without borders, unity in the Body of Christ, and transparency. The fellowship said it categorically rejects and refutes any suggestion that it acted to hinder Rev. Omolehin or any other minister from preaching.