Chris Oyakhilome: Difference between revisions

Browse history interactively ← Previous editContent deleted Content addedVisual WikitextInline

Revision as of 02:58, 11 April 2011 editSceptre (talk \| contribs)Autopatrolled, Extended confirmed users, Page movers, Pending changes reviewers, Rollbackers, Template editors79,182 edits →Ministry: no reliable sources; BLP← Previous edit		Latest revision as of 21:05, 29 December 2024 edit undoJohnny Johnny Junior (talk \| contribs)17 edits →top: Added informationTags: Mobile edit Mobile app edit Android app edit App section source
Line 1:		Line 1:
			{{Multiple issues\|section=\|
	<!-- Please do not remove or change this AfD message until the issue is settled -->
			{{Peacock\|date=May 2023}}
	{{Article for deletion/dated\|page=Chris Oyakhilome\|timestamp=20110411024504\|year=2011\|month=April\|day=11\|substed=yes}}
			{{Autobiography\|date=May 2023}}
	<!-- For administrator use only: {{Old AfD multi\|page=Chris Oyakhilome\|date=11 April 2011\|result='''keep'''}} -->
			}}
	<!-- End of AfD message, feel free to edit beyond this point -->
			{{Short description\|Nigerian pastor (born 1963)}}
	{{BLP sources\|date=June 2009}}
	{{~~Orphan~~\|date=~~February~~ ~~2009~~}}		{{EngvarB\|date=August 2013}}
			{{Use dmy dates\|date=March 2024}}
	{{Infobox person		{{Infobox person
	\| name = ~~Pastor~~ Chris Oyakhilome		\| name = Chris Oyakhilome
			\| honorific_prefix = ]
	\| image =
			\| image = Pastorchris.jpg
	\| image_width =
	\| caption =		\| caption =
			\| birth_name = Christian Oyakhilome
	\| birth_date = December 7
			\| birth_date = {{birth date and age\|1963\|12\|7\|df=y}}
	\| birth_place = {{Flag\|Nigeria}}
			\| birth_place = ], Nigeria
	\| occupation = ], ], ], ], life coach
			\| occupation = Pastor, ] minister, television host, author, philanthropist
	\| spouse = Pastor Anita Oyakhilome
			\| spouse = {{marriage \|Anita Ebhodaghe \|1991 \|2016 \|end=divorce}}
	\| signature =
			\| children = 2
	\| website =
			\| known_for = Global Evangelical Outreach

			\| notable_works = Founder, LoveWorld Inc
	\| footnotes =
			\| website = {{URL\|http://www.pastorchrisonline.org/}}
	}}		}}
	'''Pastor Chris Oyakhilome''' (known popularly as "Pastor Chris") is a ] and founding president of '''Believers' LoveWorld Incorporated''' also known as "Christ Embassy", a ] organization headquartered in ], ].

			'''Christian Oyakhilome''' (born 7 December 1963), known as '''Pastor Chris''', is a Nigerian pastor, author, ] and president of ], a Christian ministry based in ]. He is the founder of ], a large congregation with branches in several countries, and the author of the daily devotional '']''.<ref>{{Cite web \|last=Nwafor \|date=25 August 2022 \|title=Rhapsody of Realities hits 7,000 languages, hosts #ReachOutWorldLive with Pastor Chris \|url=https://www.vanguardngr.com/2022/08/rhapsody-of-realities-hits-7000-languages-hosts-reachoutworldlive-with-pastor-chris/ \|access-date=31 January 2023 \|website=Vanguard News \|language=en-GB}}</ref><ref name="ChannelSTV 2015">{{Cite web \|title=Pastor Oyakhilome Donates 1Billion Naira To Idahosa University \|url=https://www.channelstv.com/2015/10/23/pastor-oyakhilome-donates-1billion-naira-to-idahosa-university/ \|access-date=31 January 2023 \|website=Channels Television \|language=en}}</ref>
	==Divine Healing==
	Pastor Chris strongly believes that it is not God's will for man to be sick. Following the foot steps of the one he preaches, Jesus, Pastor Chris has an arm of his ministry called the ''Healing School'', which is responsible for imparting faith- the necessary substance to receiving a miracle in the Christian faith, thereafter ministering to the sick to get healed. <ref>http://www.enterthehealingschool.org.org</ref>This subject on divine healing has sparked up controversy from some who challenge the authenticity of miracles.<ref>http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:niCzz2JgCb8J:www.sowetan.co.za/news/article.aspx%3Fid%3D740954+sowetan+pastor+chris&cd=3&hl=en&ct=clnk&gl=us</ref> However in this age of global freedom of speech, many individuals who have been impacted by the ministry of Pastor Chris have risen, and flooded social network, websites, and blogs of their divine experience in Christ Embassy. <ref>http://www.nightofblisssouthafrica.co.za</ref>.

			Oyakhilome also organises mass rallies and his "healing school" is held periodically every year in ] and ].<ref name=":1">{{Cite web \|title=Thousands Attend Christ Embassy Healing School in Lagos – THISDAYLIVE \|url=https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2018/08/10/thousands-attend-christ-embassy-healing-school-in-lagos/ \|access-date=31 January 2023 \|website=www.thisdaylive.com}}</ref>
	==Crowd Pulling Programs, Nigeria==
	Pastor Chris has held some of the largest Christian crusades around the world. In 2002, Christ Embassy organized the Night of Bliss Special with Pastor Chris, an event which had the 60,000 capacity National Stadium, Surulere in Lagos, Nigeria, filled to capacity with a crowd three times it's capacity. Several more thousands participated via large screen displays around the stadium's grounds.

			== Early life and education ==
	In 2003, Christ Embassy organized a Night of Bliss, Benin-City, with Pastor Chris. This program had over 1.3 million people in attendance under a heavy downpour of rain.
			Chris Oyakhilome was born on 7 December 1963 to Tim and Angelina Oyakhilome in ], ].<ref name="thelibertarianrepublic_com">{{Cite web \|last=Petersen \|first=Austin \|date=2023-02-15 \|title=Pastor Chris Oyakhilome: The Family Man \|url=https://thelibertarianrepublic.com/pastor-chris-oyakhilome-the-family-man/ \|access-date=2024-06-02 \|website=The Libertarian Republic \|language=en}}</ref> He is the third child of 7 children and the first of two sons. He has five sisters and all of his siblings play active roles in Loveworld and ].<ref name="thelibertarianrepublic_com" /> They are Beayeta Akhuemokhan (née Oyakhilome), Mercy Oyakhilome, Kenneth Oyakhilome, Linda Okocha (née Oyakhilome), Kathy Woghiren (née Oyakhilome) and Lovelina Osazuwa (née Oyakhilome).<ref>{{Cite web \|last=Man \|first=The New \|title=Biography of Pastor Chris Oyakhilome \|url=https://www.thenewman.org.ng/2021/03/biography-of-pastor-chris-oyakhilome.html \|access-date=31 January 2023 \|website=The New Man Movement}}</ref>

			He attended ], and on scholarship, gained admission into ], which was later renamed ], ] where he studied and obtained a first degree in ].<ref name="tribune">{{Cite web \|last=Online \|first=Tribune \|date=28 October 2019 \|title=A Biography of Pastor Chris Oyakhilome: The Glorious Life of the Man of God \|url=https://tribuneonlineng.com/a-biography-of-pastor-chris-oyakhilome-the-glorious-life-of-the-man-of-god/ \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230529020826/https://tribuneonlineng.com/a-biography-of-pastor-chris-oyakhilome-the-glorious-life-of-the-man-of-god/ \|archive-date=2023-05-29 \|access-date=1 February 2023 \|website=Tribune Online \|language=en-GB}}</ref>
	In 2004, Christ Embassy organized a Night of Bliss, Port Harcourt. This event had over 2.5 million people in attendance.<ref>http://www.dossiers.tk/pastor-chris-oyakhilome20050117-interview.htm</ref> The all roads leading to the venue got blocked, and many who were traveling in by road for the program were stuck in the traffic, and had to participate in the program from their vehicles.

			== Ministry and theology ==
	In 2006, the ministry, under the leadership of Pastor Chris Oyakhilome organized the Good Friday Miracle Night with Pastor Chris. This event had over 3.5 million people in attendance, with 2.6 million people seat reservation bookings. <ref>http://www.christembassy.org/GFMNreport/index.htm</ref>. This program was the last on site public program organized by Christ Embassy in Nigeria. The day after the program, a 24 hour traffic jam occurred in the city of Lagos, Nigeria, and some connected this to the program with Pastor Chris.
			]

			Oyakhilome's ministry began while he was a student on campus at ]. As an undergraduate, he founded a youth ministry called Youth For Christ, which became the largest fellowship at Bendel State University. In one of his services, Oyakhilome gave an account of how the ] at the time attended his service once on Campus.<ref>{{Citation \|title=PASTOR CHRIS REVEALS HOW HIS VICE CHANCELLOR DIDN'T WANT HIM TO ORGANIZE MEETING AT SCHOOL \|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vn4E5VyW8pw \|language=en \|access-date=7 February 2023}}</ref>
	Since 2006, Pastor Chris has focused on leadership development within the ministry, and organizes special programs for specific people.

			Upon graduation in 1987, he started a church in Benin City and relocated to Lagos in 1989, where he established Christ Embassy.<ref name="tribune" />{{fv\|reason=No ref to move to Lagos\|date=June 2024}} {{As of\|February 2023}}, there were BLW Campus Fellowships and Christ Embassy Churches in higher institutions and major cities around the world;<ref>{{Cite web \|title=Believer's Loveworld (BLW) \|url=https://www.leicesterunion.com/opportunities/societies/findasociety/blwle/ \|access-date=1 February 2023 \|website=www.leicesterunion.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|title=Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Biography: Who Is Christ Embassy Founder and How Old is He Now? \|url=https://buzznigeria.com/pastor-chris-oyakhilome/ \|access-date=1 February 2023 \|website=buzznigeria.com}}</ref> Oyakhilome's ministry has spread to the ], the ], ] and ],<ref>News report from Channel 7: https://7news.com.au/lifestyle/health-wellbeing/christ-embassy-leader-shares-conspiracies-c-3756414. Accessed 24 August 2021.</ref> and has "healing school" sessions in South Africa, ], and ].<ref name=":1" />
	==Crowd Pulling Programs, Outside Nigeria==

			Oyakhilome also founded a Christian-based television network, which broadcasts worldwide from Africa. He also held the largest single-night event in Nigeria in 2006 with claimed 3.5{{nbsp}}million people in attendance "Good Friday Miracle Night".<ref>{{cite news \|title=Pastor Chris Oyakhilome builds N100 million auditorium \|url=https://encomium.ng/pastor-chris-oyakhilome-builds-n100-million-auditorium/ \|access-date=27 August 2024 \|work=Encomium \|date=28 April 2014}}</ref>{{dubious\|reason=This number is extraordinary and following them up al seem to lead back to their own claims\|date=August 2024}} Oyakhilome also hosts Higher Life conferences in Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, the UK, the US, and Canada,<ref>{{Cite web \|url=http://www.nigeriagalleria.com/Nigeria/Personality-Profiles/Pastors-Bishops/Pastor-Chris-Oyakhilome.html \|title=Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, Pastor, Prophet, Evangelist, Nigeria Personality Profiles \|website=nigeriagalleria.com \|access-date=3 May 2017}}</ref> and organized the ''Night of Bliss'' South Africa event at the ] in ].<ref>{{Cite web \|url=http://www.drum.co.za/articles/News/We-attend-Pastor-Chris-Night-of-Bliss \|title=We attend Pastor Chris' Night of Bliss \|date=16 March 2011 \|publisher=DRUM \|access-date=11 August 2015 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120502041103/http://www.drum.co.za/articles/News/We-attend-Pastor-Chris-Night-of-Bliss \|archive-date=2 May 2012 \|url-status=dead }}</ref> Oyakhilome also operates an International School of Ministry,<ref>{{Cite web \|title=InnerCity Mission for Children – Chris Oyakhilome Foundation International (COFI) \|url=https://cofi.online/innercity-mission-for-children/ \|access-date=2024-06-30 \|language=en-US}}</ref> which held one of its Ministers' Network Conferences in 2016 with 5,000 ministers in attendance from 145 countries, in Johannesburg, South Africa.<ref>{{Cite web \|url=https://loveworldnews.com/posts/in-todays-news-welcome-luncheon-at-ism-ministers-network-conference \|title=Welcome Luncheon at ISM Ministers' Network Conference \|date=12 April 2016 \|publisher=Loveworldnews.com \|access-date=1 May 2016}}</ref>
	Over the years, Pastor Chris has had programs in South- Africa, United Kingdom, and Canada frequently. Progressively, the impact of these programs increased steadily and by 2010, the attendance, publicity, and impact could not be ignored. On the 20th of August, 2010, Pastor Chris used the O2 Arena for a crusade <ref>http://en.wikipedia.org/The_O2_Arena_%28London%29#Church_events</ref><ref>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nGMz6LzaEY8</ref><ref>http://www.christembassy.org/en/newscenter/content/news222cb6d/</ref>. The Auditorium was full to capacity and many had to be redirected to nearby Christ Embassy churches to watch via large screens.
	Same year in Canada, Pastor Chris used the International Center, Ontario, for a Night of Bliss, Canada which had over 12,000 people in attendance.<ref>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lt9tbVWQ0EQ</ref>

			He runs an online prayer network using social media to send messages to Christians in several countries. He also operates a smartphone messenger called KingsChat.<ref>{{Cite web \|url=https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joinkingschat.android&hl=en \|title=KingsChat on Google Play \|access-date=29 August 2016}}</ref> In 2015, Oyakhilome was given an honorary doctorate from Ambrose Alli University<ref>{{Cite web \|date=22 April 2015 \|title=AAU to honour Oyakhilome, others \|url=https://thenationonlineng.net/aau-to-honour-oyakhilome-others/ \|access-date=6 April 2022 \|website=The Nation Newspaper \|language=en-US}}</ref> and ].<ref>{{Cite web \|url=http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Pastor-Chris-Oyakhilome-pledges-N1billion-to-Nigeria-University-389657 \|title=Pastor Chris Oyakhilome pledges N1billion to Nigeria University \|publisher=Ghanaweb.com \|access-date=24 October 2015}}</ref> In 2017, Oyakhilome, in partnership with ], created the Christian cable channel ].<ref>{{Cite web \|last=Walubengo \|first=Peris \|date=2023-06-20 \|title=Top 13 richest pastors in Nigeria in 2024: background, net worth, and cars \|url=https://www.legit.ng/ask-legit/top/1086659-top-richest-pastors-nigeria/ \|access-date=2024-06-02 \|website=Legit.ng - Nigeria news. \|language=en}}</ref>
	===2011 Events===

	On the 11th of March, 2011, Christ Embassy organized a major program in South Africa tagged, Night of Bliss South Africa, at the FNB stadium. People began arriving for this event 24 hours before,<ref>http://www.timeslive.co.za/local/article961785.ece/Traffic-around-FNB-stadium-diverted</ref> and the 94,700 capacity stadium was filled to capacity<ref>http://www.drum.co.za/articles/News/We-attend-Pastor-Chris-Night-of-Bliss</ref><ref>http://www.nightofblisssouthafrica.co.za/</ref>. Over 700,000 tickets were given out for this event and many from outside South Africa were entreated to participate from their houses, as the event was streamed live via internet, several terrestrial and satellite stations. This event is currently being confirmed as the most ticketed event yet on earth. Prior to this event, Pastor Chris has used the Coca cola dome for a crusade, and by the second time he was going to use it, it was for a leadership training program for leaders in Southern Africa only.
			Oyakhilome has hosted several online programs including five editions of the Global Day of Prayer, with Benny Hinn, the first edition on 27 March 2020. Today, his ministry has a digital currency called Espee that members can use to make different transactions.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=Ceflix Tv \|url=https://ceflix.org/videos/watch/1865151/espee-the-new-digital-currency-of-the-ministry-explained-by-pastor-lanre \|access-date=2024-06-30 \|website=ceflix.org}}</ref>{{primary source inline\|date=June 2024}}

			==Personal life==
			Chris Oyakhilome married Anita Ebhodaghe on 2 February 1991. They met as students at the university. Anita was also a pastor in Christ Embassy and was widely known as Pastor Anita. They later had two daughters, Sharon and Charlene.<ref>{{Cite news \|title=All about Pastor Chris Oyakhilome's marriage, wife and children \|url=https://guardian.ng/news/all-about-pastor-chris-oyakhilomes-marriage-wife-and-children/ \|access-date=17 January 2024 \|work=]}}</ref>

			The couple filed for divorce on 9 April 2014. In an official release made by Pastor Anita's legal team, Attwaters Jameson Hill, the divorce was confirmed completed on 8 February 2016, and they stated, "Anita Oyakhilome would like to confirm that she is no longer involved in or part of Christ Embassy AKA Believers loveworld Inc."
			<ref>{{Cite news \|url=http://www.attwatersjamesonhill.co.uk/news/anita-oyakhilome \|title=Anita Oyakhilome Attwaters Jameson Hill Harlow \|work=Attwaters Jameson Hill Solicitors \|access-date=3 May 2017}}</ref>

			On 6 October 2018, Pastor Benny Hinn officiated the wedding ceremony of Pastor Chris' first daughter, Sharon, to Phillip Frimpong; a Ghanaian, with former President ] as chairman of the occasion.<ref>{{Cite web \|last= \|first= \|date=9 April 2023 \|title=The Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Family: His Two Daughters \|url=https://guardian.ng/news/the-pastor-chris-oyakhilome-family-his-two-daughters/ \|access-date=21 January 2024 \|website=The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News \|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|last=Sunkanmi \|first=Iyanu \|date=6 October 2018 \|title=Beautiful white wedding photos of Pastor Chris Oyakhilome's daughter \|url=https://www.kemifilani.ng/weddings/beautiful-photos-from-pastor-chris-oyakhilomes-daughters-wedding/ \|access-date=21 January 2024 \|website=Kemi Filani News \|language=en-GB}}</ref>

			In 2011, '']'' estimated Oyakhilome's wealth as between $30 million and $50 million.<ref name="reuters-20141012">{{Cite news \|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-nigeria-megachurches-insight-idUSKCN0I104F20141012 \|title=Nigeria's 'megachurches': a hidden pillar of Africa's top economy \|last=Cocks \|first=Tim \|date=12 October 2014 \|access-date=22 September 2019 \|work=Reuters}}</ref>

			==Philanthropic work==
			Oyakhilome operates the Inner City Mission Project, which works to assist orphaned and indigent children in inner cities in several countries.<ref>{{Cite news \|url=https://theinnercitymission.ngo/about/\|title=About - InnerCity Mission HQ\|work=The InnerCity Mission}}</ref> The organisation is under the auspices of the ], which works to help the poor and those in the inner cities. The organisation sends relief materials to countries when disasters strike and works with government parastatals to improve social well-being.{{Citation needed\|date=March 2024}}

			The Chris Oyakhilome Foundation is one of the major sponsors of the <ref>{{Cite web \|title=DONATIONS · TRUSTED MARKET FOR HIGH-QUALITY PRODUCTS AND SERVICES \|url=https://pushaboo.com/donations/ \|access-date=6 April 2022 \|language=en-US}}</ref> in Africa managed by pushaboo,<ref>{{Cite web\|last=\|first=\|date=\|title=Pushaboo\|url=https://pushaboo.com/\|url-status=live\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200411143726/https://pushaboo.com/ \|archive-date=11 April 2020 \|access-date=\|website=Pushaboo}}</ref> an organisation spearheading the care of mothers and babies around the world.

			Other agencies<ref>{{Cite web\|title=The Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Foundation International Takes the Lead in Humanitarian Efforts Across the African Continent\|url=https://www.thenigerianvoice.com/news/279285/the-pastor-chris-oyakhilome-foundation-international-takes-t.html\|access-date=15 July 2020\|website=Nigerian Voice}}</ref> supported by Chris Oyakhilome Foundation International (COFI) are the Volunteer Medical Corps, ], Inner City Mission for Children, Future Africa Leaders Foundation and the Bible for All Mission.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=Oyakhilome Foundation Touching Lives Globally – THISDAYLIVE \|url=https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2019/12/14/oyakhilome-foundation-touching-lives-globally/ \|access-date=2024-06-30 \|website=www.thisdaylive.com}}</ref>

			In an inquiry started in 2013, the ] found there was "serious misconduct and/or mismanagement" in the administration of the "Christ Embassy", a charity associated with Oyakhilome and his church's activities. An interim manager was appointed to review the activities and governance of the charity, leading to a report that “the board of trustees appears to be fragmented” and “appear to have little appreciation of their roles, duties and obligations as Trustees”. The interim manager served until the appointment of a new Board of Trustees in 2016. Following the appointment of the new Board of Trustees, significant progress was made to address the governance and improve oversight and control of the charity.<ref>{{cite web \|last1=Charities Commission \|title=Decision: Charity Inquiry: Christ Embassy \|url=https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/charity-inquiry-christ-embassy/charity-inquiry-christ-embassy \|website=www.gov.uk \|date=18 January 2022 \|access-date=18 April 2024 \|ref=christ_embassy_2019}}</ref>

			== Honors ==
			Honorary Doctorate in Divinity from Benson Idahosa University.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web \|url=http://www.biu.edu.ng/pastor-chris-oyakhilome-bags-biu-doctorate-degree-in-divinity/ \|title=Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Bags BIU Doctorate Degree in Divinity \|website=biu.edu.ng \|date=30 October 2015 \|publisher=Benson Idahosa University \|access-date=3 May 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|url=https://www.onlineprnews.com/news/653287-1451557375-pastor-chris-honored-with-the-prestigious-doctorate-degree.html \|title=Pastor Chris Honored with the Prestigious Doctorate Degree \|website=onlineprnews.com \|access-date=3 May 2017}}</ref>

			Honorary Doctorate Doctor of Science Award, Ambrose Alli University.<ref>{{Cite web\|url=http://www.biznesswatch.com/pastor-chris-oyakhilome-awarded-doctor-of-science-by-ambrose-ali-universityekpoma-edo-state/\|title=Pastor Chris Oyakhilome- Awarded Doctor of Science by Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma, Edo State. \| Bizness Watch\|website=www.biznesswatch.com\|access-date=4 June 2019\|archive-date=4 June 2019\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190604081648/http://www.biznesswatch.com/pastor-chris-oyakhilome-awarded-doctor-of-science-by-ambrose-ali-universityekpoma-edo-state/\|url-status=dead}}</ref>

			In December 2023, he was named the Chancellor – Head of Government and Chairman Plenipotentiary of Weldios University. <ref>{{Cite web \|last=Content \|first=Branded \|date=7 December 2023 \|title=Pastor Chris Oyakhilome is the new Chancellor of the prestigious Weldios University \|url=https://punchng.com/pastor-chris-oyakhilome-is-the-new-chancellor-of-the-prestigious-weldios-university/ \|access-date=9 December 2023 \|website=Punch Newspapers \|language=en-US}}</ref>

	==Controversies==		==Controversies==
	* Pastor Chris has been accused of staging miracles. He was accused of offering 10,000 Rands to each person who gets healed at his meetings.<ref>http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:niCzz2JgCb8J:www.sowetan.co.za/news/article.aspx%3Fid%3D740954+sowetan+pastor+chris&cd=3&hl=en&ct=clnk&gl=us</ref> This report caused mixed reaction by the internet public, and many raised eye brows at Pastor Chris' Ministry. However, due to lack of validity of claims, and many who out of curiosity attended subsequent meetings with Pastor Chris and became eye witnesses, this claims was debunked. Many argued on social networks and online discussion forums, that Pastor Chris has had healing meetings for several years in Nigeria and several others in UK and South Africa, with a three session healing school in Nigeria and South Africa respectively and only one person has made this accusation.

	* Healing ]: ] has come out against the Pastor and Christ Embassy on claims to heal life threatening diseases such as HIV <ref>http://www.politicsweb.co.za/politicsweb/view/politicsweb/en/page71654?oid=190635&sn=Detail</ref> This was stirred up in response to the publicity for the Night of Bliss which held at the FNB Stadium, South-Africa, on the 11th of March 2011.

			Oyakhilome has garnered attention for his advocacy of faith healing as a potential solution for ].<ref>{{cite news \|title=Hundreds share testimonies from virtual healing services with Pastor Chris \|url=https://pmnewsnigeria.com/2021/10/15/hundreds-share-testimonies-from-virtual-healing-services-with-pastor-chris/ \|access-date=15 February 2024 \|work=]}}</ref>
	* The ] of Nigeria, an agency of the Nigerian government vested with the powers of prosecuting cases involving financial and economic crimes has placed '''Pastor Chris Oyakhilome''' under surveillance investigating an illegal transfer of $35 million USD from Nigeria to foreign bank accounts by his church.<ref>http://www.elombah.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4548:pastor-chris-oyakhilome-in-35million-money-laundering-scam&catid=46:naija-gossip&Itemid=64</ref> However, these are only rumors, as no one from the agency, and the agency itself has not validated these internet based rumors.

			Oyakhilome has been accused of preaching the ] and using his followers for money, stating that those who donate to his ministry will be rewarded with wealth, health.<ref>{{Cite web \|url=https://www.dw.com/en/preachers-of-prosperity-faith-as-business/a-38936708 \|title=Preachers of prosperity: faith as business \|last=Aarni Kuoppamäki \|date=22 May 2017 \|work=] \|access-date=29 December 2019}}</ref> However he has responded to criticism by stating that "true prosperity comes from spiritual growth and adherence to God's principles, not mere material accumulation.<ref>{{Cite web \|last= \|first= \|date=2024-03-16 \|title=Pastor Chris on prosperity gospel: "It is about how you live your life" \|url=https://guardian.ng/news/pastor-chris-on-prosperity-gospel-it-is-about-how-you-live-your-life/ \|access-date=2024-03-21 \|website=The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News \|language=en-US}}</ref>
	The money laundering charges are regarded by many people as un-substantiated since the sources are not named and have never been confirmed by ]. They are sparsely reported only by Internet-based Nigerian gossip papers.

			Oyakhilome also supports YouTube-propagated ], including a video he posted linking the Corona Virus with the 5G mobile network rollout and a conspiracy of the "]"<ref>{{Cite news\|last=Orjinmo\|first=Nduka \|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-52189785\|title=Nigeria's mega-churches adjust to empty auditoriums\|date=8 April 2020\|publisher=BBC News\|access-date=14 April 2020\|language=en-GB}}</ref> He has preached against vaccines and has been accused of undermining efforts to eradicate serious infectious diseases.<ref>{{cite news \|last1=Silas \|first1=Don \|title=Pastor Chris Oyakhilome got it wrong, COVID-19 vaccine saves lives - NIFROP \|url=https://dailypost.ng/2021/04/01/pastor-chris-oyakhilome-got-it-wrong-covid-19-vaccine-saves-lives-nifrop/ \|work=Daily Post Nigeria \|date=1 April 2021}}</ref> He has also spoken against vaccines against malaria.<ref>{{cite news \| url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-67577223 \| title=Chris Oyakhilome: Nigerian pastor pushing malaria vaccine conspiracy theories \| work=BBC News \| date=18 April 2024 }}</ref>

			Oyakhilome and his church have been accused of spreading ] misinformation about ], ] and ]<ref>{{cite news \|last1=Nwonwu \|first1=Chiagozie \|last2=Tukur \|first2=Fauziyya \|last3=Alo \|first3=Olaronke \|title=Chris Oyakhilome: Nigerian pastor pushing malaria vaccine conspiracy theories \|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-67577223 \|access-date=18 April 2024 \|website=BBC \|date=18 April 2024 \|publisher=BBC Global Disinformation Team \|ref=bbc_disinfo_2024}}</ref> In 2021, the Oyakhilome-associated Loveworld Television Network was convicted of making false claims about the ] and for the same infraction, the television network was fined £125,000 by British regulators ].”<ref>{{Cite news \|last=Hancock \|first=Sam \|date=2021-03-31 \|title=Christian broadcaster fined £125,000 for Covid-19 conspiracies \|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/media/christian-tv-channel-ofcom-covid-conspiracy-b1825259.html \|work=The Independent}}</ref><ref>{{cite web \|last1=Ofcom \|title=Ofcom Broadcast and On Demand Bulletin \|url=https://www.ofcom.org.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0021/211188/loveworld-limited-sanction-decision.pdf \|access-date=18 April 2024 \|website=Ofcom \|ref=ofcom_2021}}</ref>

			== Writings ==
			Oyakhilome is the author of ''Rhapsody of Realities'', which is distributed monthly in several countries and also shared via social media platforms.<ref>{{Cite web \|url=https://www.newsday.co.zw/2017/04/17/pastor-chris-maiden-zim-trip/ \|title=Pastor Chris in maiden Zim trip \|date=17 April 2017 \|website=NewsDay Zimbabwe \|access-date=3 May 2017}}</ref> Below are the books written and the year published.
			{{div col}}
			* Recreating Your World in 1998
			* Gates of Zion in 1998
			* Your Rights In Christ in 1998
			* The Oil And The Mantle in 1999<ref>{{cite web \| url=https://www.newsday.co.zw/2017/04/17/pastor-chris-maiden-zim-trip/ \| title=Pastor Chris in maiden Zim trip }}</ref>
			* None of These Diseases in 2000
			* How To Receive Your Miracle and Retain It in 2001
			* When God Visits You in 2001
			* The Power of Tongues in 2001
			* Join This Chariot in 2002
			* Praying the Right Way in 2004
			* Don't Stop Here in 2004
			* How To Make Your Faith Work in 2005
			* Prophecy in 2005
			* Seven Things The Holy Spirit Will Do For You in 2005
			* Holy Spirit And You in 2005
			* Now That You Are Born Again in 2006
			* The Seven Spirits of God in 2006
			* Healing From Heaven in 2010
			* Rhapsody Of Realities Topical Compendium in 2011
			* How To Pray Effectively in 2012
			* The Power Of Your Mind: Walk In Divine Excellence in 2016<ref>{{Cite web \|title=Chris Oyakhilome Biography, Education, Ministry, Networth \|url=https://naijabiography.com/biography/chris-oyakhilome-biography-education-ministry-networth/ \|access-date=31 January 2023 \|website=Naijabiography Media \|language=en-US}}</ref>
			{{div col end}}

	==References==		==References==
			{{Reflist}}
	<references/>

	==External links==		==External links==
	*		* {{Official website\|http://www.pastorchrisonline.org/\|name=Pastor Chris Online}}

	*
			{{Authority control}}
	*
	*
	*
	*
	*
	*
	*
	*
	*
	*

	{{Persondata <!-- Metadata: see ]. -->
	\| NAME = Oyakhilome, Chris
	\| ALTERNATIVE NAMES =
	\| SHORT DESCRIPTION = Global Christian Evangelist
	\| DATE OF BIRTH = DECEMBER 7
	\| PLACE OF BIRTH = Edo State, Nigeria
	\| DATE OF DEATH =
	\| PLACE OF DEATH =
	}}
	{{DEFAULTSORT:Oyakhilome, Chris}}		{{DEFAULTSORT:Oyakhilome, Chris}}
	]
	]		]
	]		]
	]		]
	]
	]
	]		]
			]

			]
	]

Latest revision as of 21:05, 29 December 2024

This article has multiple issues. Please help improve it or discuss these issues on the talk page. (Learn how and when to remove these messages)

This article contains wording that promotes the subject in a subjective manner without imparting real information. Please remove or replace such wording and instead of making proclamations about a subject's importance, use facts and attribution to demonstrate that importance. (May 2023) (Learn how and when to remove this message)

This article is an autobiography or has been extensively edited by the subject or by someone connected to the subject. It may need editing to conform to Misplaced Pages's neutral point of view policy. There may be relevant discussion on the talk page. (May 2023) (Learn how and when to remove this message)

(Learn how and when to remove this message)

Nigerian pastor (born 1963)

PastorChris Oyakhilome

Born	Christian Oyakhilome (1963-12-07) 7 December 1963 (age 61) Edo State, Nigeria
Occupation(s)	Pastor, faith healing minister, television host, author, philanthropist
Known for	Global Evangelical Outreach
Notable work	Founder, LoveWorld Inc
Spouse	Anita Ebhodaghe (m. 1991; div. 2016)
Children	2
Website	www.pastorchrisonline.org

Christian Oyakhilome (born 7 December 1963), known as Pastor Chris, is a Nigerian pastor, author, televangelist and president of LoveWorld Incorporated, a Christian ministry based in Lagos. He is the founder of Christ Embassy, a large congregation with branches in several countries, and the author of the daily devotional Rhapsody of Realities.

Oyakhilome also organises mass rallies and his "healing school" is held periodically every year in Nigeria and South Africa.

Early life and education

Chris Oyakhilome was born on 7 December 1963 to Tim and Angelina Oyakhilome in Edo State, Nigeria. He is the third child of 7 children and the first of two sons. He has five sisters and all of his siblings play active roles in Loveworld and Christ Embassy. They are Beayeta Akhuemokhan (née Oyakhilome), Mercy Oyakhilome, Kenneth Oyakhilome, Linda Okocha (née Oyakhilome), Kathy Woghiren (née Oyakhilome) and Lovelina Osazuwa (née Oyakhilome).

He attended Edo College, and on scholarship, gained admission into Bendel State University, which was later renamed Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma where he studied and obtained a first degree in Architecture.

Ministry and theology

Oyakhilome's ministry began while he was a student on campus at Ambrose Alli University. As an undergraduate, he founded a youth ministry called Youth For Christ, which became the largest fellowship at Bendel State University. In one of his services, Oyakhilome gave an account of how the Vice Chancellor at the time attended his service once on Campus.

Upon graduation in 1987, he started a church in Benin City and relocated to Lagos in 1989, where he established Christ Embassy. As of February 2023, there were BLW Campus Fellowships and Christ Embassy Churches in higher institutions and major cities around the world; Oyakhilome's ministry has spread to the United Kingdom, the United States, Ghana and South Africa, and has "healing school" sessions in South Africa, Lagos, and Canada.

Oyakhilome also founded a Christian-based television network, which broadcasts worldwide from Africa. He also held the largest single-night event in Nigeria in 2006 with claimed 3.5 million people in attendance "Good Friday Miracle Night". Oyakhilome also hosts Higher Life conferences in Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, the UK, the US, and Canada, and organized the Night of Bliss South Africa event at the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg. Oyakhilome also operates an International School of Ministry, which held one of its Ministers' Network Conferences in 2016 with 5,000 ministers in attendance from 145 countries, in Johannesburg, South Africa.

He runs an online prayer network using social media to send messages to Christians in several countries. He also operates a smartphone messenger called KingsChat. In 2015, Oyakhilome was given an honorary doctorate from Ambrose Alli University and Benson Idahosa University. In 2017, Oyakhilome, in partnership with Benny Hinn, created the Christian cable channel LoveWorld USA.

Oyakhilome has hosted several online programs including five editions of the Global Day of Prayer, with Benny Hinn, the first edition on 27 March 2020. Today, his ministry has a digital currency called Espee that members can use to make different transactions.

Personal life

Chris Oyakhilome married Anita Ebhodaghe on 2 February 1991. They met as students at the university. Anita was also a pastor in Christ Embassy and was widely known as Pastor Anita. They later had two daughters, Sharon and Charlene.

The couple filed for divorce on 9 April 2014. In an official release made by Pastor Anita's legal team, Attwaters Jameson Hill, the divorce was confirmed completed on 8 February 2016, and they stated, "Anita Oyakhilome would like to confirm that she is no longer involved in or part of Christ Embassy AKA Believers loveworld Inc."

On 6 October 2018, Pastor Benny Hinn officiated the wedding ceremony of Pastor Chris' first daughter, Sharon, to Phillip Frimpong; a Ghanaian, with former President Olusegun Obasanjo as chairman of the occasion.

In 2011, Forbes estimated Oyakhilome's wealth as between $30 million and $50 million.

Philanthropic work

Oyakhilome operates the Inner City Mission Project, which works to assist orphaned and indigent children in inner cities in several countries. The organisation is under the auspices of the Chris Oyakhilome Foundation International, which works to help the poor and those in the inner cities. The organisation sends relief materials to countries when disasters strike and works with government parastatals to improve social well-being.

The Chris Oyakhilome Foundation is one of the major sponsors of the inner city orphanage homes in Africa managed by pushaboo, an organisation spearheading the care of mothers and babies around the world.

Other agencies supported by Chris Oyakhilome Foundation International (COFI) are the Volunteer Medical Corps, Trauma Care International Foundation, Inner City Mission for Children, Future Africa Leaders Foundation and the Bible for All Mission.

In an inquiry started in 2013, the UK Charity Commission found there was "serious misconduct and/or mismanagement" in the administration of the "Christ Embassy", a charity associated with Oyakhilome and his church's activities. An interim manager was appointed to review the activities and governance of the charity, leading to a report that “the board of trustees appears to be fragmented” and “appear to have little appreciation of their roles, duties and obligations as Trustees”. The interim manager served until the appointment of a new Board of Trustees in 2016. Following the appointment of the new Board of Trustees, significant progress was made to address the governance and improve oversight and control of the charity.

Honors

Honorary Doctorate in Divinity from Benson Idahosa University.

Honorary Doctorate Doctor of Science Award, Ambrose Alli University.

In December 2023, he was named the Chancellor – Head of Government and Chairman Plenipotentiary of Weldios University.

Controversies

Oyakhilome has garnered attention for his advocacy of faith healing as a potential solution for HIV/AIDS.

Oyakhilome has been accused of preaching the prosperity gospel and using his followers for money, stating that those who donate to his ministry will be rewarded with wealth, health. However he has responded to criticism by stating that "true prosperity comes from spiritual growth and adherence to God's principles, not mere material accumulation.

Oyakhilome also supports YouTube-propagated conspiracy theories, including a video he posted linking the Corona Virus with the 5G mobile network rollout and a conspiracy of the "New World Order." He has preached against vaccines and has been accused of undermining efforts to eradicate serious infectious diseases. He has also spoken against vaccines against malaria.

Oyakhilome and his church have been accused of spreading anti-vaccine misinformation about HPV, polio and malaria vaccination In 2021, the Oyakhilome-associated Loveworld Television Network was convicted of making false claims about the COVID-19 pandemic and for the same infraction, the television network was fined £125,000 by British regulators Ofcom.”

Writings

Oyakhilome is the author of Rhapsody of Realities, which is distributed monthly in several countries and also shared via social media platforms. Below are the books written and the year published.

Recreating Your World in 1998
Gates of Zion in 1998
Your Rights In Christ in 1998
The Oil And The Mantle in 1999
None of These Diseases in 2000
How To Receive Your Miracle and Retain It in 2001
When God Visits You in 2001
The Power of Tongues in 2001
Join This Chariot in 2002
Praying the Right Way in 2004
Don't Stop Here in 2004
How To Make Your Faith Work in 2005
Prophecy in 2005
Seven Things The Holy Spirit Will Do For You in 2005
Holy Spirit And You in 2005
Now That You Are Born Again in 2006
The Seven Spirits of God in 2006
Healing From Heaven in 2010
Rhapsody Of Realities Topical Compendium in 2011
How To Pray Effectively in 2012
The Power Of Your Mind: Walk In Divine Excellence in 2016

References

Nwafor (25 August 2022). "Rhapsody of Realities hits 7,000 languages, hosts #ReachOutWorldLive with Pastor Chris". Vanguard News. Retrieved 31 January 2023.
"Pastor Oyakhilome Donates 1Billion Naira To Idahosa University". Channels Television. Retrieved 31 January 2023.
^ "Thousands Attend Christ Embassy Healing School in Lagos – THISDAYLIVE". www.thisdaylive.com. Retrieved 31 January 2023.
^ Petersen, Austin (15 February 2023). "Pastor Chris Oyakhilome: The Family Man". The Libertarian Republic. Retrieved 2 June 2024.
Man, The New. "Biography of Pastor Chris Oyakhilome". The New Man Movement. Retrieved 31 January 2023.
^ Online, Tribune (28 October 2019). "A Biography of Pastor Chris Oyakhilome: The Glorious Life of the Man of God". Tribune Online. Archived from the original on 29 May 2023. Retrieved 1 February 2023.
PASTOR CHRIS REVEALS HOW HIS VICE CHANCELLOR DIDN'T WANT HIM TO ORGANIZE MEETING AT SCHOOL, retrieved 7 February 2023
"Believer's Loveworld (BLW)". www.leicesterunion.com. Retrieved 1 February 2023.
"Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Biography: Who Is Christ Embassy Founder and How Old is He Now?". buzznigeria.com. Retrieved 1 February 2023.
News report from Channel 7: https://7news.com.au/lifestyle/health-wellbeing/christ-embassy-leader-shares-conspiracies-c-3756414. Accessed 24 August 2021.
"Pastor Chris Oyakhilome builds N100 million auditorium". Encomium. 28 April 2014. Retrieved 27 August 2024.
"Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, Pastor, Prophet, Evangelist, Nigeria Personality Profiles". nigeriagalleria.com. Retrieved 3 May 2017.
"We attend Pastor Chris' Night of Bliss". DRUM. 16 March 2011. Archived from the original on 2 May 2012. Retrieved 11 August 2015.
"InnerCity Mission for Children – Chris Oyakhilome Foundation International (COFI)". Retrieved 30 June 2024.
"Welcome Luncheon at ISM Ministers' Network Conference". Loveworldnews.com. 12 April 2016. Retrieved 1 May 2016.
"KingsChat on Google Play". Retrieved 29 August 2016.
"AAU to honour Oyakhilome, others". The Nation Newspaper. 22 April 2015. Retrieved 6 April 2022.
"Pastor Chris Oyakhilome pledges N1billion to Nigeria University". Ghanaweb.com. Retrieved 24 October 2015.
Walubengo, Peris (20 June 2023). "Top 13 richest pastors in Nigeria in 2024: background, net worth, and cars". Legit.ng - Nigeria news. Retrieved 2 June 2024.
"Ceflix Tv". ceflix.org. Retrieved 30 June 2024.
"All about Pastor Chris Oyakhilome's marriage, wife and children". The Guardian. Retrieved 17 January 2024.
"Anita Oyakhilome Attwaters Jameson Hill Harlow". Attwaters Jameson Hill Solicitors. Retrieved 3 May 2017.
"The Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Family: His Two Daughters". The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News. 9 April 2023. Retrieved 21 January 2024.
Sunkanmi, Iyanu (6 October 2018). "Beautiful white wedding photos of Pastor Chris Oyakhilome's daughter". Kemi Filani News. Retrieved 21 January 2024.
Cocks, Tim (12 October 2014). "Nigeria's 'megachurches': a hidden pillar of Africa's top economy". Reuters. Retrieved 22 September 2019.
"About - InnerCity Mission HQ". The InnerCity Mission.
"DONATIONS · TRUSTED MARKET FOR HIGH-QUALITY PRODUCTS AND SERVICES". Retrieved 6 April 2022.
"Pushaboo". Pushaboo. Archived from the original on 11 April 2020.
"The Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Foundation International Takes the Lead in Humanitarian Efforts Across the African Continent". Nigerian Voice. Retrieved 15 July 2020.
"Oyakhilome Foundation Touching Lives Globally – THISDAYLIVE". www.thisdaylive.com. Retrieved 30 June 2024.
Charities Commission (18 January 2022). "Decision: Charity Inquiry: Christ Embassy". www.gov.uk. Retrieved 18 April 2024.
"Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Bags BIU Doctorate Degree in Divinity". biu.edu.ng. Benson Idahosa University. 30 October 2015. Retrieved 3 May 2017.
"Pastor Chris Honored with the Prestigious Doctorate Degree". onlineprnews.com. Retrieved 3 May 2017.
"Pastor Chris Oyakhilome- Awarded Doctor of Science by Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma, Edo State. | Bizness Watch". www.biznesswatch.com. Archived from the original on 4 June 2019. Retrieved 4 June 2019.
Content, Branded (7 December 2023). "Pastor Chris Oyakhilome is the new Chancellor of the prestigious Weldios University". Punch Newspapers. Retrieved 9 December 2023.
"Hundreds share testimonies from virtual healing services with Pastor Chris". P.M. News. Retrieved 15 February 2024.
Aarni Kuoppamäki (22 May 2017). "Preachers of prosperity: faith as business". DW. Retrieved 29 December 2019.
"Pastor Chris on prosperity gospel: "It is about how you live your life"". The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News. 16 March 2024. Retrieved 21 March 2024.
Orjinmo, Nduka (8 April 2020). "Nigeria's mega-churches adjust to empty auditoriums". BBC News. Retrieved 14 April 2020.
Silas, Don (1 April 2021). "Pastor Chris Oyakhilome got it wrong, COVID-19 vaccine saves lives - NIFROP". Daily Post Nigeria.
"Chris Oyakhilome: Nigerian pastor pushing malaria vaccine conspiracy theories". BBC News. 18 April 2024.
Nwonwu, Chiagozie; Tukur, Fauziyya; Alo, Olaronke (18 April 2024). "Chris Oyakhilome: Nigerian pastor pushing malaria vaccine conspiracy theories". BBC. BBC Global Disinformation Team. Retrieved 18 April 2024.
Hancock, Sam (31 March 2021). "Christian broadcaster fined £125,000 for Covid-19 conspiracies". The Independent.
Ofcom. "Ofcom Broadcast and On Demand Bulletin" (PDF). Ofcom. Retrieved 18 April 2024.
"Pastor Chris in maiden Zim trip". NewsDay Zimbabwe. 17 April 2017. Retrieved 3 May 2017.
"Pastor Chris in maiden Zim trip".
"Chris Oyakhilome Biography, Education, Ministry, Networth". Naijabiography Media. Retrieved 31 January 2023.

External links

Pastor Chris Online

Categories: