Drama unfolded at Ologbo Park, by Agip Filling Station along Sapele Road, Benin City, when a popular evangelist, identified as Pastor Evidence, chased away a fellow pastor who had come to preach to passengers travelling from Benin to Warri, Delta State.

It is common in most motor parks in Benin for pastors to preach to passengers before their journeys, often seeking financial support for their evangelical work. However, the routine practice took an unexpected turn yesterday morning when Pastor Evidence, in full view of passengers, bus conductors and onlookers, demanded that his colleague leave the park, claiming he had exclusive rights to preach there.

The incident sparked outrage among some bus drivers, causing division and chaos in the park. While a section of the drivers supported Pastor Evidence, others condemned his actions, accusing him of greed and hostility towards a fellow preacher.

A traveller who witnessed the scene, criticized Pastor Evidence, saying his conduct reflected the commercialization of the gospel. The passenger, who preferred to remain anonymous, expressed disappointment, describing the behaviour as shameful for a supposed man of God.

He questioned the pastor’s motives, suggesting that such actions only fuel the exploitation of the word of God by fake preachers. (The Guardian, but headline rejigged)