Biodun Fatoyinbo, the Global Senior Pastor of the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA), has expressed regret for his remarks regarding Joseph Ayo Babalola, the first General Evangelist of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) and a revered preacher.
In a widely shared video, Biodun Fatoyinbo called the late Babalola “anointed,” but he also said that “all the grace just went like that” because the preacher “had no money” and inquired, “Where are his children?”
The statement was intended to convey the idea that biblical values like stewardship and prosperity should come before grace and power. The CAC called that remark “both insensitive and ill-informed,” sparking a backlash.
The COZA pastor did, however, apologize for the comment in a statement posted on his Facebook page late Thursday, despite claiming that it had “been misconstrued.”
“I apologise if any other statement made by me has caused any form of distress, hurt, or discontentment to the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), the family of the late Apostle Babalola, or his associates. I will never disrespect or speak of them in that manner, either publicly or privately,” He wrote.
“Many of the churches in this part of the world take their DNA either directly or indirectly from the ministry and grace over the life of Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola of which I cannot but also state categorically that I am a beneficiary,” the clergyman said, describing Babalola as a “most distinguished father of faith in Nigeria and indeed all over the world.”
He posted on his Facebook page, saying, “Our church is known throughout the world as a place of honor, and I would never in any way or manner take lightly the grace over Apostle Babalola, his children, or his ministry for granted or speak lightly of the same.”
His remarks were made just hours after Ade Alawode, CAC’s Director of Publicity, called the Abuja-based cleric’s assertion “Biblically flawed.”
“To equate anointing or ministerial success with material wealth is biblically flawed.” said Alawole in the CAC statement. The words of Jesus are clear: Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses; Luke 12:15.”
“Ethically speaking, Apostle Babalola had children. Simple arithmetic should help you understand that they would be advanced in age by now; possibly your grandparents’ age. What did you hope to achieve with the mocking question, ‘Where are the children of Babalola?’
“Your statement reflects more on the kind of company you keep, but as a preacher of the Word, shouldn’t your conduct and utterances be guided by Scripture?
“Where in the Bible does your brand of prosperity theology originate, one that demeans people for not being wealthy?
“Isn’t such a message encouraging greed, corruption, and godlessness, especially in a nation already struggling with moral decay?”Alawole concluded.
