Odumeje criticised churches that place strong emphasis on tithing, alleging that some prioritise collecting money from worshippers over demonstrating spiritual power or performing miracles.
According to the cleric, some churches devote considerable attention to teachings on tithes and offerings without providing what he described as practical evidence of spiritual manifestations.
“Those people that collect tithes and teach tithes every day when you come to church, they will be interested in making sure that they clear your pockets. And there is no practical evidence and miracles that you will see. The only thing is stories. That is not the kind of church I run,” he said.
Explaining his ministry’s approach, Odumeje said his calling was centred on demonstrating spiritual power rather than teaching extensively about tithing and giving.
“My mission on earth is demonstration of power. All the teaching of tithe and teaching of giving, I am not in that area,” he added.
However, the cleric clarified that he did not regard tithing as wrong, arguing that the decision to pay should be a personal matter between an individual and God.
He maintained that although tithing was real, Christians should not be pressured or manipulated into making such financial contributions.
“I don’t collect tithes. Nobody pays me tithes. I am not saying that tithe is bad. It’s a decision between you and God if you want to pay tithe. Tithe is real. But it is something that you must decide. Not something that somebody will be brainwashing you, forcing you,” Odumeje said.
The cleric also condemned religious teachings that suggest Christians could be denied entry into heaven for failing to pay tithes, rejecting the use of such claims to compel worshippers to give.
