The Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) has formally accepted the apology of Biodun Fatoyinbo, Global Senior Pastor of the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA), after his recent comments about CAC’s late founder, Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola, sparked widespread outrage.
Speaking on behalf of the church, CAC’s Director of Publicity, Pastor Aderinsoye Alawode, said the apology was received in good faith, describing it as a show of humility and remorse.
Fatoyinbo, while preaching, had stated that although Apostle Babalola was greatly anointed, he “had no money” and “died poor,” even questioning what became of his children. The remarks were widely criticised as insensitive and misleading.
In a statement, CAC condemned the comments, warning against equating spiritual success with material wealth.
“To equate anointing or ministerial success with material wealth is biblically flawed,” the church said, quoting Luke 12:15: “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”
The late apostle’s first daughter, Deaconess Eunice Ogini, also rejected the claims, insisting her father lived a life of service and left behind enduring legacies. She stressed that his children had continued in his footsteps and were living comfortably.
Following the backlash, Fatoyinbo issued a public apology on Thursday to CAC and Babalola’s family.
“I would never in any way or manner take lightly the grace over Apostle Babalola, his children or his ministry,” he said. “I apologise if any statement made by me caused distress, hurt, or discontentment to the CAC, the family of the late Apostle Babalola, or his associates.”
Responding, Alawode commended Fatoyinbo for retracting his words.
“He realised that the statement evoked some feelings and he took steps to correct himself. That is what is needed; it shows remorse,” he said.
Alawode clarified that CAC never accused Fatoyinbo of malicious intent, but sought to correct public misconceptions. He added that Apostle Babalola’s children were all doing well, having served in government and the church, and remained respected leaders in their own right.
𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗔𝗽𝗽 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗹 𝗧𝗼 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝗔𝘀 𝗜𝘁'𝘀 𝗗𝗿𝗼𝗽!
