The Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) has issued a strong rebuttal to comments made by Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo, Senior Pastor of the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA), regarding the life and ministry of its first General Evangelist, Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola.

In a widely circulated message on YouTube, Pastor Fatoyinbo acknowledged Apostle Babalola’s anointing but questioned his financial standing during his lifetime and mockingly asked, “Where are his children?”

CAC’s Director of Publicity, Pastor Ade Alawode, described the remarks as “insensitive and biblically flawed,” warning that such statements promote a misleading prosperity gospel narrative.

“To equate anointing or ministerial success with material wealth is biblically flawed. The words of Jesus are clear: ‘Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses’ (Luke 12:15),” Pastor Alawode said.

Setting the record straight on Apostle Babalola

According to Pastor Alawode, Apostle Babalola was called into ministry in 1928 at the age of 24 and served across Nigeria and the Gold Coast (now Ghana), with his work marked by “undeniable signs and wonders.”

He stressed that Babalola was “blessed but not materialistic,” giving lands to the church, supporting education, feeding the poor, and housing more than his biological children.

“When Queen Elizabeth II visited Nigeria in 1956, Apostle Babalola was among the honoured guests. Would a man in rags be granted such recognition by a colonial government? Certainly not,” he stated.

Alawode also revealed that the late evangelist lived in a comfortable home, drove a Ford Jeep — one of the best vehicles of his era — and supported numerous community needs without exploiting the pulpit.

On family and legacy

Pastor Alawode confirmed that Apostle Babalola’s children, Mama Eunice Wuraola Ogini and Apeke Adeniyi, are alive, “blessed, fulfilled, and quietly serving the Lord” in their churches.

“They are not loud, ostentatious, or greedy,” he added.

The CAC spokesman emphasised that Babalola’s legacy continues to inspire more than 66 years after his death, calling this the true measure of ministry success.

Questioning prosperity theology

Pastor Alawode challenged Pastor Fatoyinbo’s brand of prosperity preaching, asking where in Scripture such teaching originates.

“Isn’t such a message encouraging greed, corruption, and godlessness, especially in a nation already struggling with moral decay?” he asked.

He further drew biblical parallels, pointing to Acts 3:6 where Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have,” yet remained anointed.

Call for humility and biblical truth

The CAC concluded its statement with a reminder that greatness in God’s kingdom is measured by service, not wealth.

“The measure of a believer’s anointing is not in material accumulation, but in sacrificial service. For the Kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17).

Pastor Alawode urged church leaders to “walk in humility, reverence, and godly wisdom” while resisting the lure of covetousness.

By Bankole

The Companion, a leading faith-based organisation of Muslim professionals in Nigeria, has announced a significant leadership transition as Dr. Imran Saheed Adekunle takes the mantle of Amir of its Abuja District. The appointment marks the beginning of a new era focused on strategic leadership, social development, and intellectual grounding.

Dr. Adekunle, a distinguished technocrat, scholar, and mentor, steps into the role following the impactful tenure of Dr. Taofeek Adejare, an entrepreneurship expert known for championing youth empowerment and grassroots enterprise. Under Dr. Adejare, The Companion Abuja saw a wave of innovative policy engagements and capacity-building programmes that left an indelible mark on the community.

“Leadership is a trust and a call to sincere service,” said Dr. Saheed during his acceptance speech. “With collaboration, prayers, and strategic visioning, we can drive impactful programmes that uplift both members and the larger society.”

A Scholar Rooted in Service and Reform

Soft-spoken yet intellectually formidable, Dr. Imran Saheed Adekunle brings with him decades of public service and academic achievements. He holds degrees from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ahmadu Bello University, and London Metropolitan University, culminating in a PhD in Accounting and Finance. He is also a fellow of professional bodies including ICAN, CITN, CPIN, IMC, NIM, and PMI.

Currently serving as Head of Internal Audit at the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD), Dr. Saheed has led reforms that cleaned up inefficiencies in Nigeria’s pension administration. His book, Understanding Pension Administration and Management in the Contemporary World, was not only well-received but also officially adopted by the Nigerian civil service.

A Leader Passionate About Education and Rural Transformation

Beyond public office, Dr. Saheed is revered for his philanthropic initiatives, especially through the Forum for Oke-Ogun Progress (FFOP), which he founded. The FFOP, in partnership with the Kareem Alao Scholarship Scheme, has provided scholarships to over 1,000 rural children, many of whom now study internationally, including full PhD programmes in China and Saudi Arabia.

“I believe education is a tool of liberation,” he said. “Through FFOP, we target brilliant children from rural communities and support them, especially in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).”

This educational philosophy aligns seamlessly with his agenda at The Companion. As a long-standing member who has served in key capacities including Treasurer, Financial Secretary, and Naibul-Amir (Vice President), he is now poised to lead with a clear understanding of the organisation’s vision and values.

Strategic Vision for a Purposeful Leadership

With a deep commitment to mentorship, policy reform, and spiritual growth, Dr. Saheed envisions a more responsive and impactful The Companion. Speaking about the road ahead, he emphasized a leadership model that blends faith and intellect.

“The position, as the Amir/Leader, appears to be quite challenging, but with Allah’s help, we will triumph,” he assured. “We already have implementable projects that align with our constitution. But for us, education and welfare stand out.”

He called on stakeholders: “We seek the support of all well-meaning Muslims and friends of the Ummah to make these a reality, in shaa Allah.”

Thought Leadership in Academia and Public Policy

Dr. Saheed’s voice also resonates in academic circles. His published research in journals such as the University of Calabar’s Journal of Management and Emerald Scholarly Journals explores public finance, risk management, and policy advocacy—bridging theory with real-world solutions.

Observers describe his emergence as Amir as a blend of piety, academic brilliance, and ethical stewardship, essential for leading faith-based institutions in a rapidly changing society.

 A Model for Ethical, Faith-Based Leadership

In a nation where faith leadership often grapples with perception challenges, Dr. Saheed’s credibility and commitment offer a refreshing example of what principled, visionary guidance looks like.

His tenure is anticipated to usher in strategic partnerships, grassroots initiatives, and institutional reforms that elevate both members of The Companion and broader communities.

As Nigeria continues to search for values-driven leadership, Dr. Imran Saheed Adekunle’s emergence is a timely symbol of hope, depth, and purpose.

Lead pastor of Celebration Church International, Pastor Emmanuel Iren, says the majority of sexual assault allegations made within his ministry are unfounded.

Addressing the sensitive topic during a recent sermon now trending on social media, Pastor Iren shared how he initially responded with fury to reports of sexual misconduct involving church members.

However, upon further investigation, he claimed that many of the cases lacked credible evidence.

“In this ministry, nine out of 10 cases where the women came and said they were sexually assaulted ended up false,” he said.

“The first few cases, I was angry. I called the guy and swore I would jail him until he sent evidence. The girl who claimed she was assaulted said ‘It was a nice time’ in the chat,” the pastor revealed.

Pastor Iren expressed concern about how some individuals use assault accusations manipulatively after romantic relationships come to an end.

“Ending a relationship should not be a ground for sexual assault allegations,” he warned.

Speaking directly to the young men in his congregation, the pastor urged them to uphold integrity, practice self-control, and exercise discernment in their personal lives.

He further stressed the importance of understanding consent, saying:

“Initial consent isn’t total consent. Run for your life if consent is withdrawn 10 seconds after granting it. I don’t know who raised some men!”

Pastor Iren’s remarks have sparked mixed reactions online, with some praising his emphasis on truth and others urging caution in how such issues are handled in religious communities.