•Bishop David Oyedepo
Founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, also known as Winners Chapel, Bishop David Oyedepo, on Sunday, announced that the federal government has granted approval for the construction of an airstrip at Faith Tabernacle, Canaanland, Ota, Ogun State.
The cleric explained that the new development would allow him to fly directly from the church premises, eliminating the need to first travel to the airport.
“I am sure you will be glad to know that the federal government has approved an airstrip for Canaanland,
“I won’t need to fly a helicopter to the airport anymore. I can leave from here to wherever I’m going. Members with their planes will have somewhere to land and park,” Oyedepo said.
Meanwhile, Oyedepo’s announcement has sparked reactions on social media, with some Nigerians questioning the federal government’s decision to approve the airstrip.
“Why would FG even allow him to have an airstrip in his church? Who is he???,” tweeted @Atandalukman_.
Another user, @ChrisEjiofor7, commented, “Omo, this is heaven on Earth because there is no comfort great men of God have not enjoyed on earth now.”
Others expressed concerns about the implications for Christianity and societal values.
“These pastors have turned the value system of Christianity on its head,” wrote @Stanzigar, adding, “Jesus is the only God who died as a slave. Buddha is from a rich family. Prophet Muhammed’s wife was very rich. Sad!”
However, some supported the move, with @_klassy tweeting, “If this is legal it means not just himself, many other people can leave from there. Does it meet FAA regulations? Environmental and safety regulations? If it does and would help develop the community, then it’s okay. Nor be only pastors dey chop the money. Na just them only una sabi drag pass.”
A more light-hearted reaction came from @TheUntamable1, who said, “What does it take to have a private airstrip? It’s in my pipeline of dreams too! Congratulations, Papa. I’ve always imagined having my billionaire friends, and I create a mini city for ourselves with a private airstrip as we open up one coastline forest Oppression!”
