Apostle Michael Orokpo has issued a strong rebuke to social media activist VeryDarkMan (VDM) during a church service, condemning him for mocking fellow clergyman Apostle Arome Osayi's physical appearance while delivering life advice.

The confrontation arose from a sermon given by Apostle Osayi at the International Eagles Conference (IEC) 2026, where he portrayed Nigeria as a nation with a divine spiritual purpose. Osayi suggested that the country’s hardships are part of a divine preparation rather than a result of ineffective leadership. He encouraged church leaders to view Nigeria's destiny beyond its economic challenges, stating, "Our calling as a nation is revival. God wants to generate something from here that He will export to the nations of the world."

VDM, along with commentator Solomon Buchi, challenged Osayi's assertions, claiming they discourage ambition among Nigerian youths and overlook the Church's ethical failures. VDM specifically accused Osayi of hypocrisy, noting that while he advocates for spiritual fervor, he has relocated his family to the United States, a nation he described as thriving on intellect and innovation rather than prayer.

In his response, Orokpo did not shy away from addressing VDM's comments directly. He criticized the act of mocking someone’s appearance, stating, "You are making mockery of somebody's physical issues. And then you want to advise Nigerians? If you don't have ethical values, how can you even begin to tell us how to live?" Orokpo emphasized that anyone who engages in mockery lacks the moral authority to offer guidance.

Furthermore, Orokpo defended the foundational values of America, arguing that its prosperity is deeply rooted in Christian principles rather than solely technological advancements. He pointed to symbols such as the phrase "In God We Trust" on the US dollar and the presence of biblical imagery in the American parliament as evidence of the influence of Judeo-Christian values on Western civilization.

The debate has highlighted a growing tension within the Nigerian religious community regarding the role of faith in addressing societal issues. Critics like VDM and Buchi are questioning the Church's credibility in guiding the nation, especially in light of Nigeria's persistent corruption and ethical challenges.

Orokpo concluded by asserting that VDM's influence is also a product of the Church's prayers, regardless of his recognition of that fact. This ongoing discourse raises important questions about the intersection of faith, ethics, and the future of Nigeria as a nation with a purported divine mission.