Stephen Akintayo, a prominent Nigerian entrepreneur, has said Bishop David Abioye, the first vice-president (VP) of the Living Faith Church, "is not leaving Winners Chapel".

Legit.ng reports that Akintayo attended the retirement valedictory service held in Abioye’s honour at Living Faith Church, Goshen, Abuja, on Friday, October 18.

'Abioye to continue preaching at Winners Chapel'

In a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) page, Akintayo, a friend of Winners Chapel leaders, explained that Abioye "will be preaching for the ministry anytime he is free from other visions he pursues".

Akintayo stated that the 63-year-old cleric only "retired from the administrative position he held for many years as VP".

Part of Akintayo's post on X reads:

"I also hope this has helped to avoid doubt that Bishop Abioye is not leaving Winners Chapel but has retired from the administrative position he held for many years as VP. Post-retirement service means he is FREE to pursue other visions he desires; however, he will be preaching for the ministry anytime he is free from other visions he pursues.

"After serving for over 44 years, it is the least he deserves—the freedom to do other things outside of the ministry of Winners Chapel International."

Excellent message today from @bishopdoabioye at Winners Chapel Maitama Abuja. The Power of Praise is the power for victory in every life challenge. I Also Hope this has helped to avoid Doubt that Bishop Abioye is not leaving Winners Chapel but has retired from the Administrative… pic.twitter.com/YCZEPTuZiL

— Dr Stephen Akintayo (@drsakintayo) October 20, 2024

Legit.ng reports that Abioye's retirement follows a review of the church’s administrative policy, called The Mandate.

The retirement age for leaders at the church has been pegged at 55. Only David Oyedepo, founder of the church, aged 70, can now serve for life, according to the new policy.

The Mandate stipulates that future leaders of the church will be restricted to one or two terms of seven years, pending approval by the Board of Trustees (BoT).