A sermon by Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo of the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA) has stirred controversy in Nigeria’s Christian community after remarks he made about the late Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola, the first General Evangelist of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC).
In a now-viral clip, Fatoyinbo hailed Babalola as “so anointed” but said “all the grace just went like that” because the apostle “had no money.” He also shared a story of a python that allegedly dried up after crossing Babalola’s leg.
The comments triggered backlash, especially over a rhetorical question Fatoyinbo asked during the sermon: “Where are his children? I’m sure some of them will hate God.” Many viewed it as an insensitive link between spiritual legacy and material wealth.
CAC Pushes Back
On Thursday, the CAC issued a strongly worded statement signed by its Director of Publicity, Pastor Ade Alawode, describing Fatoyinbo’s words as “insensitive and ill-informed” and “biblically flawed.”
“To equate anointing or ministerial success with material wealth is biblically flawed,” the statement read, quoting Luke 12:15: “One’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”
The church insisted Babalola was not poor, noting that he lived in a befitting home, owned one of the best Ford Jeeps of his time, and provided for many beyond his biological children. It added that his surviving children live blessed, fulfilled lives, quietly serving God.
“When Queen Elizabeth II visited Nigeria in February 1956, Apostle Babalola was among the honoured guests. Would a man in rags be granted such recognition by a colonial government? Certainly not,” Alawode stated.
Fatoyinbo Responds
In a statement, Fatoyinbo denied making disparaging remarks about Babalola’s family, stressing that he holds the apostle in the highest esteem and regards himself as a beneficiary of his ministry’s legacy.
“I would never in any way take lightly the grace over Apostle Babalola, his children or his ministry for granted or speak lightly of same,” he said. He thanked the CAC for addressing the matter in what he called “an exemplary Christian manner” and apologised for any distress caused.
He maintained that his comments were misconstrued, adding that the raw copy of the sermon is available online for verification.
Youth Group Wades In
The Concerned Christian Youth Forum (CCYF) also defended Fatoyinbo, saying the comments had been misunderstood. Convener James Paul Adama said their investigation showed there was no intent to insult the revered apostle or his family.
“The monumental legacy of the illustrious Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola transcends generations and continues to resonate within the hearts and minds of countless believers,” the group stated, confirming that Fatoyinbo had apologised to the family and church leadership.
The CCYF urged Christians to reject attempts to sow discord for sensational purposes, warning that those who exploit such controversies risk God’s judgment.
What began as a pulpit illustration has turned into a national church debate but with public apologies, clarifications, and appeals for unity, both sides appear keen to close the chapter.
