There are unmistakable signs pointing towards the resignation of Pastor Idowu Iluyomade and his wife, Dr. Siju Iluyomade, from their roles as pastors within the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), specifically from their positions at the City of David, Region 20. These indications suggest a significant shift in their involvement and leadership within the church.
The decision to resign came as a consequence of Pastor Idowu Iluyomade’s steadfast refusal to comply with a three-month suspension imposed upon him and his subsequent transfer to another parish located in Ebute Meta. This sequence of events underscores a profound disagreement between Pastor Iluyomade and the church leadership regarding disciplinary measures and pastoral assignments.
According to a source familiar with the matter, the resignation of Pastor Idowu Iluyomade has not yet been formally accepted by the governing council of the church, as he is currently serving a suspension. The council is scheduled to convene in August, coinciding with the expiration of his suspension period, to deliberate on Pastor Iluyomade’s resignation. The church, known for its structured processes, has established protocols for the resignation of pastors, particularly those of Pastor Iluyomade’s standing.
Moreover, there are whispers within the church community suggesting that a significant faction, notably the Apapa Family group, is actively advocating for Pastor Iluyomade to establish his own ministry. This influential group, reputed for its involvement in various charitable initiatives in collaboration with governments and public sector institutions, is believed to be championing Pastor Iluyomade’s transition to independent ministry. However, speculation lingers regarding the motives behind this push, with some questioning whether it aligns with genuine charitable objectives or merely serves personal interests, akin to past instances where influential pastors departed from the RCCG to establish their own ministries.
Notably, Pastor Iluyomade’s transfer from RCCG Region 20 ensued amidst controversy surrounding the timing of his wife’s birthday celebration, which coincided with the mourning period following the demise of Herbert Wigwe, former CEO of Access Bank. This incident likely contributed to the strain in his relationship with the church hierarchy, culminating in his subsequent suspension and eventual resignation.
A new minister, Pastor Charles Kpandei has resumed as the new senior pastor of the region on Sunday, June 9, 2024.
Meanwhile, KPMG Nigeria, a global network of professional firms that provides Audit, Tax and Advisory services is said to have been consulted to investigate a possible misappropriation in the RCCG City of David’s finance.
The source, however, said: “This is not the first time RCCG would employ the services of an auditing firm to investigate issues relating to finance.
“But the messy part of the story is that there is a loan running into billions that is hanging on the neck of the Trinity Tower which is a business concern of the City of David.”
