Controversial Claim by Prophet Jeremiah Omoto: First Fruit Payment Cleanses Sins, Even for Fraudsters [VIDEO]

 

A recent sermon delivered by Prophet Jeremiah Omoto Fufeyin has sparked a wave of public outcry and heated debate across religious and social circles in Nigeria and beyond. During a church service that has since gone viral online, the popular televangelist and founder of Christ Mercyland Deliverance Ministry in Warri, Delta State, made a controversial declaration about divine forgiveness and financial offerings.

Captured on video, the charismatic preacher claimed that those who faithfully offer their "first fruit" to God will have their sins washed away, regardless of the nature of their misdeeds. Prophet Omoto further emphasized that even individuals engaged in fraudulent activities, specifically "419" scams, will find divine favor if they commit to giving their first fruit.

His exact words, delivered with fervent conviction, echoed across the packed auditorium: “If you pay your first fruit, your sins will be washed away. Even if you are doing 419, God will be behind you.” The message was met with a mixture of cheers and stunned silence from his congregation. However, the broader Nigerian public, once the clip began circulating on social media platforms, responded with skepticism, disbelief, and, in many cases, outrage.

Critics argue that the prophet's message dangerously distorts biblical teachings, suggesting that financial offerings can substitute for genuine repentance and moral conduct. Religious scholars and social commentators have since taken to television panels, radio programs, and online forums to dissect the implications of such statements, calling them misleading and morally hazardous.

Several theologians have strongly rejected the notion that monetary gifts to a church can absolve any sin, let alone crimes involving deceit and exploitation. "This is a blatant misinterpretation of scripture," said Rev. Joseph Adebayo, a well-known theologian based in Lagos. "It risks turning the house of God into a marketplace where sin is traded for cash. There is no biblical basis for telling fraudsters that God will support them simply because they paid money."

Others have expressed concern about the potential impact of such statements on Nigeria’s already complex relationship with religion and fraud. The term "419" refers to a section of the Nigerian Criminal Code dealing with advance-fee fraud, a criminal enterprise that has damaged the country’s reputation on the global stage. To suggest that perpetrators of such crimes might find divine endorsement simply by giving a financial offering, many argue, only serves to embolden wrongdoing under the guise of spirituality.

Supporters of Prophet Omoto, however, have come to his defense. They argue that the statement was misunderstood and taken out of context. According to them, the prophet was speaking metaphorically, emphasizing the importance of giving and faith as avenues toward transformation and redemption. “The man of God speaks in parables,” said one of his followers online. “If you truly understand him, he is saying that no sin is too great for God to forgive when there is true sacrifice and commitment.”

Despite attempts at clarification, the storm surrounding the sermon refuses to die down. Several Christian organizations have issued statements distancing themselves from the teachings, urging believers to remain vigilant and grounded in scripture. The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) is reported to be reviewing the sermon to determine whether a formal response is warranted.

Social media has not remained silent either. Hashtags such as #419Prophecy and #FirstFruitDebate have trended across platforms like X (formerly Twitter), with users offering everything from satire to serious theological arguments. Some netizens joked that the sermon may inspire a new wave of scammers seeking to launder not just their money but their conscience through church donations.

Whether viewed as a spiritual revelation or a troubling misuse of the pulpit, Prophet Jeremiah Omoto’s statement has once again reignited discussions around the intersection of faith, finance, and morality in Nigeria. As the dust continues to settle, many are calling for deeper reflection on the responsibilities that come with religious influence, especially in a society grappling with corruption and economic hardship.

One thing remains clear. In an era where words travel faster than ever before, spiritual leaders are finding their messages scrutinized in real time, not just by their flock but by an ever-watchful public.

Video: Prophet Jeremiah Omoto reveals that if you pay your first fruit, Your Sins will be wash away. Even if you are doing 419, God will be behind you!! pic.twitter.com/Gw6PWbBUtK

— Nigeria Stories (@NigeriaStories) June 20, 2025