Nigeria’s drug approval agency, NAFDAC, has issued a warning to the public against purchasing “miracle” products promoted by the Christ Mercyland Deliverance Ministry, led by popular Nigerian Christian televangelist Jeremiah Fufeyin.

NAFDAC highlighted that these products, which include items like “miracle water” and “River Jordan water,” claim to possess dubious healing properties, such as curing infertility in women. The agency stressed that these products are being sold without its approval.

In response, the church defended its actions, stating that it is “law-abiding” and that the use of “spiritual items” is an expression of their religious beliefs. The Christ Mercyland Deliverance Ministry emphasized that it operates under Nigeria’s laws, which protect the freedom of religion.

NAFDAC began its investigation into the products after receiving complaints from the public. The agency also noted that the products violate regulatory approval requirements and accused the church of refusing to cooperate with the investigation.

However, the church, which has a large following on YouTube and social media, denied the accusation, stating that it had communicated with NAFDAC through official correspondence.

Jeremiah Fufeyin, who claims to perform miracles and heal various ailments, has long attracted a large following across Nigeria. He has also drawn criticism for his opulent lifestyle, despite his assertions of being a billionaire.

In Nigeria, it is not unusual for preachers like Fufeyin to sell products claimed to treat ailments. The late televangelist TB Joshua, for instance, sold “anointed water” that was marketed as having healing powers. A BBC investigation revealed that TB Joshua encouraged sick congregants to stop taking prescribed medication, while secretly mixing those same drugs into “healing” fruit drinks he provided to his followers.