In a surprising development, Pastor Idowu Iluyomade, the former Regional Pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), City of David, Region 20, has resigned from his pastoral duties.
The resignation came after Iluyomade refused to comply with a three-month suspension and a transfer to another parish in Ebute Meta imposed by the RCCG governing council.
According to a close associate of the pastor, Iluyomade’s resignation has been submitted to the RCCG governing council, but it is yet to be accepted.
“Since he is currently serving a suspension, the governing council has not accepted his resignation. The council is not scheduled to meet until August, when the suspension will end. The church has specific exit procedures for pastors of his status,” the source told Vanguard.
The development has stirred a mix of reactions within the RCCG community, with a fraction of the City of David members encouraging Iluyomade to start his own ministry.
It is reported that the influential Apapa Family, known for its involvement in various charitable initiatives, is making efforts to support Iluyomade in establishing his own ministry.
“The Apapa Family is known to work with government and public sector institutions on charity projects in healthcare, education, infrastructure, citizens’ welfare, and capacity building,” the source stated. “Whether their intentions are self-serving, similar to how they influenced Pastor Ituah Ighodalo to resign and start his ministry, only God knows.”
The resignation of Iluyomade, a prominent figure within the RCCG, comes amid ongoing controversies within the church. In the past, he faced criticism for celebrating his wife’s birthday during a period of mourning for the former CEO of Access Bank, Herbert Wigwe.
As the RCCG governing council prepares to address Iluyomade’s resignation in August, the faithful await the outcome of this unfolding situation, which has the potential to reshape the leadership landscape within the influential Christian organization.