Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, the founder of Christ Embassy church, also known as Believers' Loveworld, has issued a stern warning to his congregation and the public regarding the criticism of pastors and other religious leaders. In a widely circulated sermon, Pastor Oyakhilome stated that those who engage in abusing or criticising men of God invite "serious curses" upon themselves and their families.

The clergyman emphasized the grave consequences of such actions, cautioning his followers against joining what he described as a trend of criticising ministers. He elaborated that these curses could manifest as persistent sickness and other terrible things within the families of those who speak against God's servants. Pastor Oyakhilome referenced the Bible, stating, "Don’t criticise God’s people, especially the ministers of God. I say leave them alone. For the Bible says whatever they do, they do unto the Lord." He further added, "You are not the one to accuse another man's servant. To his master, his stands are false. And he says, yea, God is able to make him stand."

According to Pastor Oyakhilome, individuals who criticise pastors often do so out of ignorance. He urged believers to redirect their energies towards more constructive activities rather than "going after the church of Jesus Christ." He asserted that it is not anyone's place to judge whether a minister is genuine, stating, "You may say to me, 'But not everybody who says he is a minister is a minister.' Leave that. That is not your business. Leave them with God." He warned that if Satan pushes individuals to criticise, they would have only themselves to blame for the repercussions.

The cleric's pronouncements have sparked considerable debate and elicited mixed reactions from the Nigerian public. While some may heed his warning, many have expressed disagreement and condemnation of his position, taking to various platforms to voice their concerns.

Several counterarguments were raised by the public. One commenter, Pasiuba, pointed out that Jesus Christ himself did not curse his critics but preached repentance and mercy, suggesting that people should call erring men of God to order rather than being deterred by fear. Another individual, Ochichi, while expressing affection for Pastor Chris, viewed the message as a "stronghold against religious Nigerians that has become inundated and gotten out of hand and that's why we are where we are today." A similar sentiment was reportedly echoed by an X user, @_Ekezie.

Further reactions highlighted diverse perspectives. King Imas questioned the notion that only pulpit figures are men and women of God, suggesting that some pastors perceive themselves as superhuman and above criticism, a privilege he believes Nigerians have afforded them. Ken Uttih emphasized that all believers are "joint heirs with Christ" and cited Jesus's instruction to correct a brother who has done wrong. Uttih advocated for humility and transparency among leaders, praising Pastor Sam Adeyemi as an example of a pastor who apologized for a mistake. Other reactions included questions about accountability, such as an X user @oku_yungx asking if there are curses for men who self-appoint themselves to the altar, and Sammy Ugo Nabo inquiring about the "punishment for fake men of God" and "pulpit banditry." Another user, @AbiolaAdebisi7, stated an intent to continue criticism until "anomalies in the church" are corrected, while @Nithsmit asserted that no one could prevent them from criticising, as "nature have taught me that there are people who God never called."