Across the Atlantic, the New York Times came out with a banner headline: Nigerian Leader Resists Ouster: Fights Removal
As Premier of Western Region. According to the paper: “Samuel Ladoke Akintola has stubbornly refused to accept his dismissal as Premier of Nigeria’s Western Region.”
Similar to this is the retirement of two bishops of the Living Faith Church, aptly dubbed Winners Chapel, Bishops David Abioye and Thomas Aremu.
At the valedictory service for Bishop Thomas Aremu in Ibadan, the Ladoke Akintola, former premier of western region spirit resurrected in the message of the valedictorian as he said, ”I’m Going Nowhere, I’ll remain in the church despite his retirement from the service of the church.
Also said that he does not have any plan to start his own church, stating that he has no capacity to establish a church.
He said, I don’t have a church and I cannot have a church because God has not infused me with the capacity to do so. I will remain in Winners even after retirement.”
Dwelling on his over 40 years experience in Winners, he further told the congregation which had the presiding bishop of the commission, Dr David Oyedepo and his wife, Faith, in attendance, that whatever God commences, He finishes.
“If you want to ask me how it has been all the while from 1983 till now, I will say it has been from one wonderful event to the other. He gave me a pastor after his own heart. I have enjoyed the privilege of being under my pastor. God planted me here.
“It has been from glory to glory. I hear God like I hear Oyo Radio. God speaks to me. He has ordered my steps. He still speaks to me up till today. Too many virtues we have received. But God’s presence has been my greatest asset.
“I want to appreciate my father in the Lord who took us as raw materials and then begin to mould and remould us, correcting us.
“I don’t have a church I shall remain in the Winners Church. I will be privileged to document my experience to the younger generation and will continue to practice liberality as God will enable me.
“I also know that as he releases prophetic unction on me, I am going higher. Thank you all and God bless you.”
What else do people expect from Baba Ibeji at 67?
This indeed, Akintola Ta Ku in the Christendom
Meanwhile, Bishop Oyedepo has advised the retired bishop not to carry a retirement mentality.
He said, “Put on strength, put on your garment. Don’t carry a retirement mentality. Whatever you dream to do, grace is coming on you.”