Oyakhilome Risks Jail Term In South Africa

Founder of Christ Embassy Church, Chris Oyakhilome, may end up in prison if he fails to hand over his church’s financial records from 2012 to the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities in South Africa.

This is because the Commission has threatened to deal with Nigerian pastor in a lawful way if he fails to adhere to its directive.

News24 reports that religious organisations in the country were told by the Commission to release their financial records, but some of them, including Oyakhilome’s church, have refused to do this.

According to the government’s body, it is investigating the alleged commercialization of religion and abuse of people’s beliefs in South Africa.

Head of the Commission, Thoko Mkhwanazi-Xaluva told News24 that, “Some of these religious leaders will face prison if they do not comply and we have been clear about our course of action.

“Some religious leaders have also threatened the commission, which is leading us towards the legal route.

“These people take money from people, what are they doing with that money? We want to know. We will not back down.

“If he (Oyakhilome) intends on that route (court), we are ready. He will have to face the same fate as the others who refuse to hand over their financial records.”

Oyakhilome reportedly threatened to take the Commission to court based on its request.