Abuja, Nigeria — The Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) has accepted the apology of Biodun Fatoyinbo, Global Senior Pastor of the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA), after his recent comments about the church’s late founder, Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola, sparked outrage among members and the wider Christian community.
The controversy arose after a sermon in which Fatoyinbo remarked that Babalola was “anointed but had no money” and questioned the legacy left behind for his children. His comments, which went viral on social media, drew sharp criticism from the CAC and descendants of the late revivalist.
In a statement issued on Thursday, CAC Director of Publicity, Pastor Aderinsoye Alawode, condemned the remarks as misleading, stressing that equating anointing with material wealth was “biblically flawed.”
“Ordinarily, we do not respond to social media controversies. However, your comments implied that ministerial success is measured by material possessions, which contradicts the words of Jesus: one’s life does not consist in the abundance of things he possesses (Luke 12:15),” the statement read.
Also reacting, Apostle Babalola’s first daughter, Deaconess Eunice Ogini, defended her father’s legacy, noting that he lived a life of sacrifice and service to God. She insisted that his children were successful and lived comfortably, contrary to the impression created by Fatoyinbo’s remarks.
Amid mounting backlash, Fatoyinbo issued a statement on Thursday tendering an unreserved apology to the CAC, the Babalola family, and associates of the late cleric.
“I would never in any way speak lightly of Apostle Babalola, his ministry, or his children. If any of my words caused hurt or distress, I sincerely apologise. My church is a place of honour, and we hold his legacy in deep respect,” he clarified.
Reacting to the apology, Pastor Alawode commended Fatoyinbo for showing humility, noting that the gesture reflected remorse and a willingness to make amends.
“He realised his words evoked feelings and he took steps to correct himself. That is what is needed. Once he recognised the error and apologised, that is alright,” Alawode told Saturday PUNCH.
He further explained that the CAC’s concern was not to accuse Fatoyinbo of ill intent, but to correct public misconceptions.
“We only wanted to make it clear that Apostle Babalola did have children, and they are alive, successful, and serving both God and humanity in their own capacities,” he added.
By Adeola Olaniya | August 16, 2025
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