The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has suspended Pastor Idowu Iluyomade, the Senior Pastor of the City of David parish and head of the Apapa Family of the RCCG.
The suspension, reportedly lasting three months, was enacted over the weekend by the church’s Governing Council, as confirmed by a source to The Nation.
The suspension follows public outcry over the extravagant 60th birthday celebration of Iluyomade’s wife, Siji, shortly after the death of former Access Bank CEO, Herbert Wigwe, in a helicopter crash in the US. The celebration was widely seen as in poor taste, given Wigwe’s recent passing and his significant contributions to the church.
In addition to the suspension, the Governing Council has established a panel to investigate allegations against Iluyomade and the parish. Pastor Charles Kpandei of RCCG Resurrection Parish, Region 11, has replaced Iluyomade and assumed his duties at the City of David on Sunday, June 2, although he was reportedly met with a cold reception.
A top RCCG pastor explained that the decision to suspend Iluyomade aimed to address concerns within the parish and the broader community. The church officials engaged with influential members of the City of David parish to ensure support for the transition, given Iluyomade’s significant influence.
The sources indicate that Iluyomade’s removal might be permanent, suggesting that this suspension is a strategic move ahead of the upcoming convention in three months. The decision was made by the Governing Council and not by Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the RCCG.
Pastor Iluyomade, affectionately known as PID, has faced intense scrutiny following his wife’s birthday celebration, which many perceived as insensitive in the wake of Wigwe’s death. Despite the backlash, some church members feel the suspension decision, though necessary, came belatedly. The RCCG continues to investigate the issues raised against Iluyomade and the parish to address any potential concerns.
Herbert Wigwe’s contributions to the RCCG had been substantial, and his death was a significant loss to the community, further intensifying reactions to the timing of the birthday celebration.
