Chris Oyakhilome: What to know about BBC’s investigation on Nigerian pastor’s malaria vaccine conspiracy theories

In the midst of global health efforts, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, a prominent African evangelical preacher, vehemently opposes vaccines, particularly targeting the new malaria vaccine in Africa. 

BBC reported that despite scientific evidence supporting vaccines’ efficacy, Pastor Chris spreads anti-vaccine messages to his vast following through sermons and documentaries, raising concerns about public health. 

His influence extends to millions worldwide, with followers citing his teachings as reasons for vaccine hesitancy. Pastor Chris’s rhetoric includes conspiracy theories, misinterpretations of public figures like Bill Gates, and false claims about vaccine safety and efficacy. 

His actions have drawn criticism and fines, but his stronghold over followers persists, fueled by poverty and limited health infrastructure in Africa.

Read also:

• BBC investigation: What Nigerians are saying about TB Joshua
• Re: Buhari’s Tweet about CNN/BBC Report on The #Endsars Campaign
• Buhari: Why we must empower our scientists to find vaccine for COVID-19 treatment
• No approved vaccine yet in Nigeria for COVID-19, says WHO
• Is Pastor Adeboye a false prophet?

As efforts to combat diseases like malaria and cervical cancer through vaccination continue, Pastor Chris’s disinformation poses significant challenges to public health initiatives and underscores the power of influential figures in shaping public opinion.

Here’s things to know about Pastor Chris Oyakhilome’s claim:

Spread of False Information: Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, a prominent evangelical preacher, has been spreading anti-vaccine messages through his sermons and documentaries, denying the efficacy of vaccines and accusing authorities of deception.

Targeting Specific Vaccines: He specifically targets the new malaria vaccine being distributed in African countries, despite its potential to save tens of thousands of lives and positive outcomes observed in pilot campaigns.

Conspiracy Theories: Pastor Oyakhilome spreads conspiracy theories, such as vaccines being a tool for depopulation, and falsely claims that malaria doesn’t exist.

Influence on Followers: His influential sermons negatively impact vaccine uptake among his followers, as evidenced by statements from attendees like Winnifred Ikhianosin, who refuse to take vaccines based on his teachings.

Influence of Religious Leaders: Ada Umenwaliri highlights the significant role pastors and religious leaders play in shaping the choices of their followers, especially in regions with poverty and limited health infrastructure.

Misinterpretation of Bill Gates’ Statements: Pastor Oyakhilome misinterprets statements by figures like Bill Gates, taking them out of context to support his anti-vaccine narrative.

False Claims about HPV Vaccine: He also spreads misinformation about the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, intended to prevent cervical cancer, further undermining public health efforts.

Past History of False Claims: Pastor Oyakhilome has a history of making unfounded claims about various vaccines, including tetanus, polio, and COVID-19 vaccines.

Legal Actions: His network, Loveworld, has faced fines for spreading misleading information about the coronavirus pandemic and vaccines.

Concerns Raised: Concerns have been raised about the pastor’s influence, with former attendees like Julius Ogunro warning about the potential danger of his anti-vaccine agenda.

Key points about BBC’s findings on Pastor Chris Oyakhilome’s stance on vaccines:

Anti-vaccine Messages: Pastor Chris Oyakhilome has been spreading anti-vaccine messages to his followers through sermons and documentaries, particularly targeting the new malaria vaccine distributed in African countries.

Influence and Reach: As a renowned evangelical preacher, Pastor Chris holds significant influence over his followers, with hundreds of thousands of followers worldwide and a strong online presence.

Conspiracy Theories: He spreads conspiracy theories, such as vaccines being part of an “evil agenda” to depopulate the world, and falsely claims that malaria doesn’t exist.

Impact on Public Health: His messages could negatively affect vaccine uptake in Africa, where vaccine-preventable diseases are common, potentially leading to devastating consequences for public health.

Disinformation Trends: Pastor Chris’s remarks are highlighted as a disinformation trend to watch by organizations like the WHO-backed Africa Infodemic Response Alliance.

Financial Interests: He has a significant financial empire, which includes media outlets and real estate, potentially influencing his stance on vaccines.

Misleading Claims: Pastor Chris makes unfounded claims about vaccines, including the HPV vaccine, tetanus injections, and polio vaccines.

Previous Controversies: During the COVID-19 pandemic, his church was fined for spreading misleading and potentially harmful statements about the pandemic and vaccines by the British media regulator Ofcom.

Overall, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome’s spread of anti-vaccine messages poses a significant challenge to public health efforts, particularly in regions like Africa where vaccines are crucial in combating diseases like malaria and cervical cancer among others.