Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo, the Global Senior Pastor of the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA), has issued a public apology following controversy over remarks he made about the late Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola, the founding evangelist of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC).
In a sermon earlier this year, Fatoyinbo described Apostle Babalola as “anointed” but controversially claimed that Babalola “had no money” and questioned sarcastically about the whereabouts of his children. These comments sparked widespread backlash from the CAC and members of the Christian community, who described the remarks as insensitive, ill-informed, and misleading—particularly in suggesting that ministerial success is tied to material wealth.
The CAC’s official statement clarified that Apostle Babalola was not poor by any standards, highlighting that he lived in a befitting home, owned one of the best vehicles of his time, and was honored by dignitaries including Queen Elizabeth II during her 1956 visit to Nigeria. It further stated that Babalola’s children are blessed, fulfilled, and quietly serving in their respective ministries without ostentation or greed.
Following the uproar, Pastor Fatoyinbo apologized sincerely for any distress or hurt his statements caused to the CAC, the family of Apostle Babalola, and his associates. He emphasized that he did not intend to speak ill of Babalola or his children and that the comments could be verified from the raw sermon footage. Fatoyinbo affirmed his respect for the late apostle and his family and pledged to avoid such controversies in the future.
This apology comes after significant public and ecclesiastical pressure, underscoring sensitivities within Nigeria’s Christian circles regarding respect for religious icons and the interpretation of spiritual legacies beyond material wealth.
The incident highlights an ongoing dialogue within Nigerian Christianity about the relationship between faith, anointing, and prosperity, while also reflecting the powerful influence of prominent pastors and the scrutiny they face in their public statements.
Fatoyinbo’s apology aims to mend relations with the CAC and restore harmony within the broader Christian community following the fallout from his remarks.
This move is welcomed by many who seek unity and respect among Nigeria's religious leaders and communities.