In response to the recent backlash over a testimony incident at Dunamis International Gospel Centre in Abuja, the church has issued an apology as the testifier, Vera Anyim, meets with Senior Pastor Dr. Paul Enenche and his wife, Becky.
The controversy arose when a video surfaced online showing Anyim giving her testimony in the church. During her testimony, she claimed to have obtained a “Bsc in Law” from the National Open University of Nigeria. However, Pastor Enenche interrupted her, accusing her of lying and questioning the credibility of her testimony. He pointed out that there was no such degree as “Bsc in Law” and promptly asked her to leave the pulpit.
This incident sparked a flurry of reactions from netizens, demanding an apology from the pastor. However, Anyim took to her Facebook page to express that she holds no grudge against the church or its leaders. She emphasized her commitment to serving God as a member of Dunamis Church and urged everyone to move forward and find peace.
In response to the issue, the church released a statement explaining that they reached out to Anyim regarding concerns raised during her testimony. These concerns revolved around her language proficiency and the clarity of her academic credentials. The statement highlighted that her speech suggested an English proficiency level below what would be expected of a university graduate, particularly one with a Law degree. Discrepancies also emerged regarding the nature and duration of her academic pursuit, casting doubt on the legitimacy of her qualifications.
The church clarified that Pastor Enenche’s actions were driven by a commitment to upholding standards of excellence and integrity within the church community. They stressed that the intention was never to publicly embarrass the testifier, but rather to address what was perceived as a “lie” in the heat of the moment. The church expressed regret for any inconvenience, hurt, or embarrassment caused to Anyim and reaffirmed their commitment to her well-being and spiritual growth.
Photos confirming Anyim’s graduation from the National Open University of Nigeria were later discovered on her Facebook page and shared online. In response to the treatment she received, Anyim expressed her disappointment at being labeled a liar and disgraced by her spiritual leader due to her language proficiency and a mistaken reference to her degree as B.Sc instead of LLB. She clarified that she graduated with a Third Class degree from NOUN and urged others not to look down on anyone, emphasizing that the rejected stone can become the cornerstone.
Through their meeting and reconciliation, Anyim and Pastor Enenche aim to put the incident behind them and move forward in unity.
