Finally, Imo PFN Chairman Accepts Defeat, Alleges Tribal Plot

Bishop Dennis Jacobs, the General Overseer of New Waves Assembly and the outgoing chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) in Imo State, has acknowledged his defeat in the election conducted on June 9, 2026.

He has committed to facilitating a smooth transition by officially handing over responsibilities to the newly elected Chairman in August, as there are no viable options to contest the election results.

The outgoing chairman and his spouse, who served as the Women Coordinator, are scheduled to vacate their positions upon the conclusion of their tenure in August.

Apostle Dr. George Ike has been elected as the new Chairman, while Barr. Pastor Princewill Odikanwa has been elected as the Deputy Chairman during the recent elections.

Sources within the chapter indicate that the outgoing Women Coordinator has already briefed her constituency and convened a farewell meeting.

Stakeholders are also encouraging Bishop Dennis to organize a valedictory general meeting prior to the transition.

Regarding developments at the national secretariat, Bishop Dennis characterized himself as “a law-abiding citizen and a man who believes in respecting authority,” affirming his commitment to adhere to any decisions made by the national body.

In a letter dated July 2, 2026, allegedly from the PFN South-East Secretary, Pastor Ikenna Agugua, which referenced the ratification of elections in Enugu, Ebonyi, and Imo by the National Vice President and National President, Bishop Dennis stated that he had not yet received an official copy.

“I urge members to disregard it until the national body communicates with me directly,” he remarked.

When asked about his legacy, Bishop Dennis highlighted the ongoing construction of the four-storey PFN secretariat project, which he referred to as a “Legacy House.”

However, he expressed disappointment that he was unable to complete the project he initiated. “Governance is a continuum,” he stated. “I hope that my successor will continue the project rather than abandon it, as often occurs in secular politics.”

The outgoing chairman alleged that his tenure was marred by tribal sentiments. “The only sin I committed was being from Anambra State, and certain influential figures vowed to remove me. That vow was made years ago, prior to my election,” he claimed.

He also referenced Dr. Cosmas Ilechukwu, former Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Imo State, alleging that Dr. Ilechukwu was removed during his bid for a second term by the same group. “Both of us are from Anambra State,” he noted.

Bishop Dennis further alleged that his decision to acquire land and initiate a “gargantuan project worth millions of Naira” incited envy. “That attracted jealousy and animosity, akin to the experiences of the biblical Joseph,” he claimed.

Analysts within PFN circles suggest that the outgoing leadership will leave behind a significant infrastructural legacy.

However, a source close to the administration, who requested anonymity due to a lack of authorization to comment, alleged that the tenure was also marked by strained relations with certain executives.

“His administration was not inclusive, which significantly impacted his leadership. There was also a refusal to engage in round-table reconciliation,” the source asserted.

Despite the tensions, Bishop Dennis stated that he has chosen to accept the outcomes and “allow God to fulfill His will so that he can focus on his ministry.”

With the elections now concluded, stakeholders are urging all factions to set aside differences and support the new leadership. There is cautious optimism that the incoming administration will adopt an inclusive approach, foster healing, and reconcile aggrieved parties to promote peace and harmony within the body of Christ.