The Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Ministries has found itself at the center of a social media storm following viral testimonies of miraculous interventions.
Members claimed encounters with a lion, fighting off armed robbers, and surviving life-threatening attacks without injury.
_Viral Testimonies Spark Criticism_
One member shared a video testimony of being rescued by a lion from kidnappers, claiming the lion lifted him like an airplane and pointed him in the right direction before saying “bye-bye.” Another female member claimed to have seized AK-47 rifles from robbers and secured their arrest. A male member recounted surviving kidnapping, machete attacks, and gunshot wounds unscathed.
_Social Media Backlash_
The extraordinary claims sparked widespread ridicule online, with many Nigerians accusing the church of staging the events. The “I am a Chosen Challenge” trend emerged on social media, mocking the testimonies.
_Critics Speak Out_
Liberate Africa (@DamilojuJLT) tweeted, “This Chosen issue is both funny and tragic. It’s madness. How can we progress scientifically when people believe lions are now transporting humans?” Chuc__kki (@Chuc__kki) added, “If the God of Chosen is really doing these things, even the attackers would be joining the church to testify.”
_Church Responds_
The Lord’s Chosen Church dismissed the viral videos as doctored and misleading. Pastor Chidi Louis, Head of Public Relations and Media, urged Nigerians to verify testimonies through official channels. “The woman’s account, for instance, was about a dream, not a real-life event. The video was edited to mislead people.”
_Previous Controversies_
This is not the first time the church has faced controversy over miraculous claims. In 2018, members testified to incredible feats, including a sticker preventing a fuel tank from running out and another ensuring a gas cylinder never needed refilling.
_Church Urges Caution_
The Lord’s Chosen Church warned against spreading false information and ridiculing the work of God, labeling bloggers “wicked and devilish” for manipulating footage.
