The Christ Apostolic Church has officially accepted an apology tendered by Biodun Fatoyinbo, Global Senior Pastor of the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly, following public outrage over his comments about the church’s late founder, Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola.
The Director of Publicity for CAC, Pastor Aderinsoye Alawode, said Fatoyinbo’s apology was received in good faith and demonstrated humility.
“He realised that the statement he made evoked some feelings in some people, and he took steps to correct himself,” Alawode noted. “That is what is needed — it means he has shown remorse.”
Fatoyinbo had, during a recent sermon, remarked that although Apostle Babalola carried extraordinary spiritual grace, he had “no money” and appeared to leave little behind materially.
The comments sparked criticism, particularly over a perceived link between ministerial success and wealth.
Reacting, CAC faulted the comparison, insisting that spiritual impact could not be measured by material possessions.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the church described the minister’s remarks as “insensitive and ill-informed.”
“To equate anointing or ministerial success with material wealth is biblically flawed,” CAC said. “One’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”
Apostle Babalola’s first daughter, Deaconess Eunice Ogini, further dismissed suggestions that her father died poor or left no legacy, stating that his children were “doing well” and living comfortably.
“My father lived a life of service to God and humanity, and we his children continue in that footing,” she said.
In a statement reacting to the backlash, Fatoyinbo clarified that he never intended any disrespect towards Apostle Babalola or his family.
“Let me state that at no time did I refer to the children of the late Apostle in a bad light,” he said. “I apologise if any other statement made by me has caused distress to the CAC, the family of Apostle Babalola, or his associates.”
Pastor Alawode remarked that although CAC rarely responds to controversies, it was important to correct any misconceptions regarding the late apostle and his children.
“We did not say he spoke of them in bad light, but wanted the public to know the children are alive, doing well, and have retired from government service,” he emphasised.
The church said it considers the matter closed, urging Christians to focus on spiritual values over material benchmarks.