Pastor Chris Okafor, the founder of the Mountain of Liberation and Miracle Ministry, also known as Grace Nation Bible Ministry, has announced he will step away from his pulpit duties for the entire month of January. The Lagos-based cleric declared his intention to take a break for prayer, spiritual retreat, and rest with his new wife.
A Time for Rest and Spiritual Renewal
The pastor made the announcement during a church service, and a video clip of his statement quickly spread online on Friday. He explained that the decision was driven by a need for personal spiritual refreshment and quality time with his spouse. Pastor Chris Okafor stated that since their wedding, the couple has not had the opportunity to rest or go on a honeymoon.
To ensure the church's activities continue seamlessly, he has delegated responsibilities to four assistant pastors. "We have four Sundays in January, so in the whole of these four Sundays, we will be having Pastor Sylvester, Pastor Kelvin, Pastor Oliver and Pastor Shedrack," he instructed the congregation. He described the upcoming services as "prophetic Sundays" where the assistants would minister and anoint members.
Allegations and a Vocal Critic
This development comes against a backdrop of renewed allegations involving the pastor. In 2025, Nollywood actress Doris Ogala publicly accused Pastor Okafor of breaking promises of marriage, causing her emotional distress, and other undisclosed issues. Furthermore, his former wife, Bessem, had previously accused him of physical assault, while she denied claims of adultery allegedly made against her by Okafor.
Ogala reacted strongly to news of the pastor's break. In a video posted on her Instagram page on Thursday, she stated that stepping aside from church duties was insufficient. She demanded that the cleric explain his alleged role in the death of her younger brother. "Stepping down from the church is not enough. Chris Okafor should come and explain to me what happened to my brother," Ogala asserted.
She warned of an impending confrontation, claiming to possess evidence including voice recordings. "You have a long battle coming... I will be displaying everything. You will tell me what happened to my brother," she added, vowing not to relent until she gets answers.
Unanswered Questions and the Path Forward
As of the time of reporting, Pastor Chris Okafor has not issued a public response to Ogala's latest allegations and demands. The situation presents a complex mix of personal retreat, marital celebration, and serious unresolved public accusations.
The one-month break, intended for spiritual and physical recuperation, is now unfolding under the shadow of these controversies. The coming weeks will reveal how the pastor's ministry handles the interim leadership and whether the private retreat will be impacted by the persistent calls for accountability from his accuser.
