– A Scandalous Soiree: The Party That Precipitated a Pastor’s Fall
– How His Wife, Siju’s 60th Anniversary Sparked Controversy, Triggered His Resignation
The glittery reign of Pastor Idowu Iluyomade at the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) City of David Parish has come to a dramatic end. Pastor Iluyomade, once the revered senior pastor of the Ligali Ayorinde branch in Victoria Island, Lagos, has resigned following his controversial reassignment to the Throne of Grace branch in Ebute Metta, Lagos.
This resignation marks the climax of a scandal sparked by an opulent birthday celebration that clashed with a period of mourning for a prominent church benefactor, Late Herbert Wigwe.
At the announcement of his suspension, the breath of life probably ceased in his body, at least for a split-second, and despair took its place. Since his suspension was announced, life ceased to be the same for Pastor Iluyomade as his reign over the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) City of David Parish in VI ended abruptly. What was once a vibrant ministry, led by a respected pastor, crumbled under the weight of controversy following an ill-timed, lavish birthday celebration....CONTINUE READING
A Scandalous Soiree: The Party That Precipitated a Pastor’s Fall
Pastor Iluyomade, until recently the senior pastor of the thriving City of David Parish, found himself reassigned to the Throne of Grace branch in Ebute Metta, Lagos. This transfer, perceived by many as a demotion, was met with resistance from Iluyomade and his wife, Siju, who conspicuously missed the church service announcing his new posting. Within two days, on June 4, 2024, Iluyomade resigned, marking a dramatic turn in his ecclesiastical career.
At the heart of this turmoil was the ostentatious 60th birthday party for Siju Iluyomade on February 18, 2024. Held at Eko Hotels & Suites, the celebration featured highlife artist Flavour and a guest list that included notable figures like Tony Elumelu and Nneka Onyeali Ikpe. This grand affair, however, occurred just days after the tragic death of Herbert Wigwe, the founding CEO of Access Holdings Plc, his wife Chizoba, and their son in a helicopter crash on February 9, 2024.
Insensitive Revelry: Backlash from Bereaved Parishioners
The timing and extravagance of the party were seen as deeply insensitive. Herbert Wigwe, a major financier and beloved member of the City of David Parish, had made significant contributions to the church’s growth and charitable activities. The opulent celebration in the wake of his death was perceived as a flagrant disregard for the grieving community, sparking widespread condemnation.
The Wigwe family, already reeling from their loss, distanced themselves from the Iluyomades and the City of David Parish. Despite a personal condolence visit from RCCG’s General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboyega, the Iluyomades’ apparent indifference to the mourning period exacerbated tensions. This perceived callousness alienated many within the congregation.
New Leadership Amidst Audit and Allegations
Following Iluyomade’s suspension on June 1, 2024, Pastor Charles Kpandei was appointed to lead the City of David Parish. Kpandei, formerly of the RCCG Resurrection Parish, had poignantly preached at the Service of Songs for the late Wigwes. On his first Sunday, Kpandei introduced himself and delivered a sermon on heaven, heralding a new chapter for the parish.
Amidst this leadership change, the City of David Parish is undergoing a thorough audit by an external firm, investigating alleged financial irregularities totaling N320 million. This scrutiny comes amid claims that RCCG auditors had not adequately examined the financial practices of provinces under the Apapa family.
Suspension and Resignation: The Fallout
Pastor Iluyomade, once the Special Assistant to the RCCG General Overseer on Christian Social Responsibility, faced suspension due to financial discrepancies and his resistance to reassignment. The combination of financial mismanagement and a perceived lack of empathy culminated in his resignation. As the Iluyomades keep their next steps private, the church community grapples with the aftermath of this scandal.
Pastor Iluyomade’s dramatic resignation underscores the fragile balance spiritual leaders must maintain between personal celebrations and their communal responsibilities. It highlights the critical importance of empathy, especially during times of collective grief. As the City of David Parish moves forward under new leadership, the lessons from this controversy will continue to resonate, shaping the future of the congregation.
