A prominent Nigerian clergyman has ignited a significant controversy on social media following the emergence of a video where he is seen offering spiritual items for a substantial fee. Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, the former President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Senior Pastor of the Word of Life Bible Church, is at the center of the storm.
The Viral Video and Its Content
In a video that has been widely circulated online, Pastor Oritsejafor is addressing a congregation. The core of the message involves the sale of what he termed 'anointed mantles' for a price of $5,000 United States dollars each. According to the cleric, these specially consecrated items hold spiritual significance for the purchasers.
He explicitly stated that acquiring one of these mantles would be instrumental in helping the believers 'avoid missing God' in their spiritual journey and divine calling. The video indicates that the offer was made to a select group of 90 individuals within the assembly, potentially representing a total transaction value of $450,000.
Public Reaction and Backlash
The reaction from social media users and the broader Nigerian public has been swift and largely critical. Many have called out the pastor, questioning the scriptural basis for selling spiritual blessings at such a high cost. The incident has sparked a heated debate about the commercialization of faith and the practices of some prosperity gospel preachers in Nigeria.
Critics argue that such actions exploit the faith and financial resources of vulnerable congregants who seek spiritual guidance. The video was notably shared by popular blogger Linda Ikeji on her Instagram page, @lindaikejiblogofficial, on January 1, 2026, amplifying its reach and the ensuing discussion.
Context and Implications
Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor is a well-known figure in Nigerian Christendom, having led the national umbrella body for Christians. This recent event places him under intense scrutiny and adds to ongoing conversations about accountability, transparency, and ethical conduct within religious leadership.
While some supporters may defend the practice as a form of sowing a seed for a major spiritual blessing, the overwhelming online discourse frames it as a problematic monetization of spirituality. The episode raises fundamental questions for the Nigerian religious community:
- The line between sincere religious offering and exploitative practice.
- The responsibility of high-profile pastors to model scriptural financial ethics.
- The vulnerability of congregants in pursuit of spiritual assurance.
As of now, there has been no official public statement from Pastor Oritsejafor or his church in response to the viral video and the backlash it has generated. The story continues to develop as more Nigerians weigh in on this controversial issue of faith and finance.
