Pastor Idowu Iluyomade, previously the senior pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) City of David Parish, has founded a new ministry in Lagos called The Family Fellowship.
A video circulating on Monday morning showed Iluyomade joyfully celebrating with members during the inaugural service, which took place at the Civic Centre on Victoria Island. The Sunday morning gathering was filled with vibrant dancing and festivities.
Iluyomade took to Instagram to announce the launch of the ministry, inviting the public to attend.
He wrote, The Family Fellowship invites you specially. Join us tomorrow at the Civic Centre for a special time in the Lord’s presence. Promises to be a great experience.”
Iluyomade’s suspension from the RCCG in 2024 followed controversy surrounding his wife, Pastor Siju, who held an extravagant 60th birthday celebration shortly after the tragic deaths of Herbert Wigwe, a prominent member of the church and former CEO of Access Bank, and his family.
The celebration, which occurred weeks after Wigwe’s untimely passing in a helicopter crash in the United States, sparked criticism from many who found the timing inappropriate.
Wigwe had been an influential figure in the church, contributing significantly to its growth before his death.
In response to the public outcry, the RCCG Governing Council set up an investigative panel.
As a result, the Iluyomades were suspended for three months in June 2024 and later reassigned to worship at the church’s headquarters in Ebute Metta. Their exclusion from the Wigwe family’s funeral further fueled discussions about their suspension.
Now, the Iluyomades have embarked on a new spiritual journey by founding The Family Fellowship, where they aim to continue their ministry.
The video from their inaugural service has garnered varied reactions online, with some comments:
Jarvis Olamide wrote, “They can’t do nothing afterward because they know all they gotta do is brainwash people to drop money. They got their own lifestyle
Emelda Ifeme2 wrote, “Business must continue
Precious Capable wrote, “Business must be made
Iamtpapi wrote, “People have turned church to business in this country and our God is really patient
Mrzdinma. o wrote, “Even Jesus go dey shock with the way people dey open churches these days
Mz_joiz wrote, “Have a personal relationship with the Lord, God
