Ogueze Venitius Chinyerugo, an 84-year-old pastor at the Deeper Life Bible Church in Nnewi, Anambra State, has decided to step down from his position as the district pastor. This move comes in response to the perceived support of the church’s general superintendent, William Kumuyi, for President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
It should be noted that Kumuyi had encouraged Nigerians to let go of the past and embrace Tinubu’s leadership. However, this statement triggered a wave of criticism from various quarters.
In a letter dated August 23, 2023, addressed to the regional overseer of the Deeper Life Bible Church, Chinyerugo expressed his disappointment and the reason for his resignation. He believed that Kumuyi’s involvement in politics, particularly his endorsement of Tinubu’s administration, was a grave mistake.
Chinyerugo expressed his sense of humiliation and disappointment after watching the viral video of Kumuyi’s political statement. In his letter, he wrote, “I write this note with great burden, bearing in mind its far-reaching spiritual implications. I feel that our father in the Lord and our general superintendent, Dr. WF Kumuyi, have made a costly mistake, and there is no way for me to effectively convey my mind to him than resigning as the pastor of the above district, effective from today, the 23rd of August, 2023.”
He went on to explain the basis for his decision, stating, “My decision was taken after watching the video, which I forwarded to you, where he advised Nigerians to support the government and the ministers, because, according to him, they will perform, especially going by their antecedents.”
Chinyerugo emphasized the historical stance of Deeper Life and Kumuyi in avoiding political entanglements, which had been a cornerstone of their teachings. He pointed out, “He had exemplified this teaching for several decades by steering clear of political controversies, until lately.”
The pastor also referenced Kumuyi’s visit to President Muhammadu Buhari in 2019, a move that drew criticism, and expressed his dismay at Kumuyi’s latest endorsement of the current administration. Chinyerugo believed that the present administration contradicted the principles and values advocated by the church and its leader.
This resignation underscores the deep conviction and commitment of Chinyerugo to the church’s teachings and his disapproval of any involvement in political matters by religious leaders.
