Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo, leader of the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA), has issued a public apology to the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) after facing widespread criticism for remarks he made about the late Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola the CAC’s first General Evangelist.
In a now-viral sermon clip, Fatoyinbo praised Apostle Babalola’s spiritual power, calling him “anointed… so anointed,” but controversially added that “all the grace just went like that” due to a lack of wealth.
He also referenced a story of a python allegedly drying up after crossing Babalola’s leg, comparing the evangelist’s spiritual authority to that of revivalist Smith Wigglesworth.
The remarks drew strong condemnation from the CAC. In a statement signed by Pastor Ade Alawode, Director of Publicity, the church described Fatoyinbo’s comments as “insensitive and ill-informed,” and criticized the implied connection between spiritual impact and material prosperity.
“In one of your trending messages, you acknowledged Apostle Babalola’s anointing but sarcastically asked, ‘Where are his children?’ This is biblically flawed and misleading,” the CAC stated, citing Luke 12:15 to emphasize that true spiritual success is not measured by material wealth.
In response, Fatoyinbo released a statement on Thursday clarifying his intent and expressing remorse.
“At no point in the message did I speak ill of the children of the late Apostle or his legacy. The full sermon is available online and can be verified,” he said.
He stressed his respect for Apostle Babalola, calling him a “highly revered father of faith” whose ministry continues to influence many churches, including COZA.
“I deeply regret any hurt or distress my comments may have caused the CAC, Apostle Babalola’s family, or his followers. I would never treat his legacy lightly publicly or privately,” Fatoyinbo added.
He concluded by expressing hope that the controversy would be resolved amicably and prayed that Apostle Babalola’s legacy “continues to grow in leaps and bounds.”
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