RCCG suspends famous Pastor for throwing lavish Wife’s birthday after Wigwes death
RCCG suspends famous Pastor for throwing lavish Wife’s birthday after Wigwes death
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. His suspension, which was communicated via a letter over the weekend, has led to Pastor Charles Kpandei of the RCCG Resurrection Parish of Region 11 taking over his role.
Pastor Kpandei reportedly began his duties at the City of David on Sunday, June 2, receiving a lukewarm reception from the congregation.
According to sources within the church, members of the City of David were anticipating Pastor Kpandei’s arrival. Senior RCCG officials met with influential figures in the parish to gain their support for Pastor Iluyomade’s removal, recognizing his significant influence within the church. The decision was handled discreetly due to concerns about potential backlash.
A source who spoke with Church Times, said, “There are just three months left until the convention. This move might be an attempt to permanently reassign Pastor Iluyomade, who has been with the parish for many years and needed a change.”
Pastor Iluyomade’s suspension, which lasts three months, was issued by the Governing Council of the RCCG. Additionally, a panel has been established to investigate various allegations against him and the parish.
A senior pastor, who pleaded anonymity with Church Times, disclosed that the decision to suspend Iluyomade was prompted by public backlash over his wife’s extravagant birthday celebration shortly after the passing of Herbert Wigwe, the former CEO of Access Bank.
He added that the decision was made by the governing council and not the General Overseer of the ministry, Pastor Adeboye, indicating a response to mounting concerns within the church community.
Referred to affectionately as PID, Pastor Iluyomade has faced criticism following his wife Siji Iluyomade’s 60th birthday celebration. Many viewed the timing of the event, just a week after Wigwe’s tragic death in a helicopter crash, as insensitive. Despite Wigwe’s significant contributions to the church, the birthday party suggested a lack of emotional reverence for his memory.
In addition to leading the City of David parish, Iluyomade serves as the Special Assistant to the RCCG General Overseer on Christian Social Responsibility through His Love Foundation. It remains uncertain whether this role has also been revoked.
Iluyomade, a seasoned lawyer of nearly four decades, specializes in Advocacy and commercial practice, particularly in areas such as International Trade Finance, Mergers and Acquisitions, International Joint Ventures, and Energy Law, among others.
