Bishop Oyedepo never said he will open the gate of hell on anyone who opposes President Jonathan - Winners Chapel

The Living Faith Church, popularly known as Winners Chapel, has dismissed reports that its founder, Bishop David Oyedepo, vowed to unleash the gate of hell on anybody who opposed the re-election of President Goodluck Jonathan, when he visited the church on January 25, 2015.

In a statement on Sunday by the Resident Pastor of the church, Pastor Ubong Ntia, the church said the reports were far from the truth and were intended to cause mischief and to dent the image of the Bishop.

"There was nowhere, nor was there any time the following prayer or words were uttered by the Church or the Bishop: 'I will open the gates of hell to anyone who opposes you', or 'I will open the gates of hell to anyone who opposes the peace of this nation'," the statement read.

He however stressed that the President along with his entourage, like the rest of the congregation, were upstanding, and prayers were made for him and all those in authority, including the nation, noting that Oyedepo did not call the President to the altar for any special deliverance.

Recounting the visit, the church said, "The President and his entourage arrived at Canaan Land (Faith Tabernacle) for the third service at about 9. 30am. He and his team were ushered in and asked to occupy the front seats alongside the resident pastor and other senior pastors. Thereafter, in honour of the President, Bishop Oyedepo invited Jonathan to 'bring a word of greeting' to the congregation.

"President Jonathan spent approximately six minutes in his address, clearly stating that he would be careful not to sound political so that his visit and intentions would not be construed as electioneering campaign.

"In his brief speech, he adulated the ministry and person of bishop for the mighty works of faith, prayer for Nigeria and educational milestones the Living Faith Church has engendered for national development. He then expressed his belief that the elections of 2015 would go peacefully, while also asking for the people of God to pray more."

The church said contrary to insinuations that the visit was meant to canvass votes from the church, the President visited "in his capacity as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

"Our church of over 33 years has been a sanctuary for all people with no prejudice to colour, ethnicity and political persuasion. We stand for righteousness and cherish our integrity."