Popular Nigerian cleric, Pastor Chris Okafor of Grace Nation Global, has issued a strong response to critics during a special thanksgiving service held to celebrate his marriage to his wife, Pearl. The event, which took place on Sunday, December 21, saw the pastor addressing the backlash that followed a recent testimony shared by the couple about their union.
Pastor's Promise Amidst Controversy
In a video from the service that circulated on social media, Pastor Okafor explained that the brief account of how their love story began was merely a glimpse. He stated that the full details of their experience were being withheld deliberately. "The devil became angry with just this little one we showed," the pastor told his congregation, emphasizing that the testimony was intended solely to glorify God's intervention, not to seek attention or sympathy.
He made it clear that both he and his wife made a conscious decision regarding the timing of their revelation. "Someday, and at the right time, we will share our stories," Pastor Okafor assured the congregants. He added, "There are encounters to this that you will not know now, but not long from now, we will tell our story. Nobody can tell our story." He stressed the importance of spiritual sensitivity and divine direction in deciding when to share personal experiences.
Public Reaction and Wider Context
The pastor's comments come amid heightened online conversation about his marriage, coinciding with the arrest of Nollywood actress, Doris Ogala, who has been a vocal critic. The video sparked a wave of reactions on social media platforms, with many users drawing connections between the two events.
Pastor Okafor also took a moment to address his congregation directly, expressing gratitude and offering an apology. "I want to thank everyone, whether you are happy or not, thank you. In any way you believe we have offended you, we are sorry," he stated.
Mixed Reactions Trail the Video
Public response to the pastor's statement has been divided. Some social media users expressed skepticism and criticism, while others showed support for the clergyman. Comments ranged from concern over the actress's situation to broader questions about the pastor's ministry.
One user, Uchechukwu29, commented: "This mockery is annoying to say the least. How’s a so call pastor accused of so many atrocities and still allowed to preach." Another user, sonofomenuko, remarked: "All the signs of being in a cult will be staring Nigerians in the face, but they still stay there in the name of church."
Conversely, the incident has drawn the attention of online commentator VeryDarkMan, who previously shared details of his last communication with Doris Ogala before her arrest and called for her release.
The unfolding situation continues to generate significant discussion online, placing Pastor Chris Okafor's personal life and ministry under intense public scrutiny.
