Politician Dino Melaye reveals why he refused to attend Shiloh 2024.

Dino Melaye, a former senator representing Kogi West, has revealed why he refused to attend Shiloh 2024, the annual gathering organized by the Living Faith Church Worldwide. According to Melaye, his decision was influenced by the retirement of Bishop David Abioye, who until recently, was a key figure in the church's structure.

Melaye expressed his confusion and disappointment over the fact that Bishop Abioye, who is younger, was retired, while Bishop David Oyedepo, the founder and older counterpart, remains actively involved. He questioned the decision, stating that "God did not retire Abioye, only Oyedepo did".

Melaye's comments have sparked a debate among church members and on social media, with some defending the leadership's decision as part of a generational shift, while others have voiced concerns about the evolving focus of Shiloh itself.

Reacting to Melaye's comments, popular Nigerian musician, Daddy Freeze, expressed his support for the former senator. "I totally agree with Dino Melaye on this one. The retirement of Bishop Abioye is a clear case of man's law superseding God's law. It's a shame, really," he said.

Also reacting, actress and filmmaker, Funke Akindele, called for caution and respect for the church's leadership. "While I understand Dino Melaye's concerns, I think we should be careful not to speak against the church's leadership. We should respect their decisions and pray for wisdom and guidance," she said.

On his part, human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, commended Melaye for speaking out against the perceived injustice. "Dino Melaye has shown courage and conviction by speaking out against the retirement of Bishop Abioye. We need more people like him who are willing to challenge the status quo and fight for what is right," he said.

Meanwhile, the Living Faith Church Worldwide has responded to Melaye's comments, stating that the retirement of Bishop Abioye was a decision taken by the church's leadership after careful consideration and prayer. The church also stated that it respects Melaye's right to his opinions, but urged him to be cautious and respectful in his comments.

As the debate continues, many Nigerians are watching with keen interest, eager to see how it will all play out. While some have expressed their support for Melaye's comments, others have called for caution and respect for the church's leadership.

Regardless of the outcome, one thing is clear: the controversy surrounding the retirement of Bishop Abioye has highlighted the need for transparency and accountability in the management of church affairs. It has also underscored the importance of respecting the rights and opinions of others, even when we disagree with them.

In related news, the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has called for calm and restraint in the face of the controversy. The PFN, which is an umbrella body for Pentecostal churches in Nigeria, urged Christians to pray for wisdom and guidance for the church's leadership.

The PFN also called on Christians to respect the decisions of the church's leadership, even if they disagree with them. "We urge Christians to be cautious and respectful in their comments and reactions. We should pray for wisdom and guidance for our leaders, rather than speaking against them," the PFN said.

As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how it will all play out. One thing is clear, however: the debate surrounding the retirement of Bishop Abioye has highlighted the need for transparency, accountability, and respect in the management of church affairs.