Nigerians have expressed mixed feelings following the announcement of the Federal Government’s approval for the construction of an airstrip at Faith Tabernacle, Canaanland, Ota, Ogun State.
The founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, also known as Winners Chapel, Bishop David Oyedepo, announced on Sunday that the FG has granted the church approval for the construction of the airstrip.
The cleric explained that the new development would allow him to fly directly from the church premises, getting rid of 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,” Oyedepo said.
He added, “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.”
However, the announcement has elicited mixed reactions from Nigerians.
While some congratulated the pastor and the church, others wondered if it was necessary.
An X user 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.”
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 worries about the implications for Christianity and societal values. “These pastors have turned the value system of Christianity on its head,” @Stanzigar wrote, 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 @TheUntamable1 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!”
“This development should be a way of encouraging Christianity’s effort in restoring peace and harmony in this nation.”
Reactions As FG Approves Airstrip For Oyedepo’s Church is first published on The Whistler Newspaper