Shola Akinyele
The Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) has publicly criticized Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo of the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA) after he described the late Apostle Ayo Babalola as a poor man during a recent sermon.
Fatoyinbo, while teaching on the dangers of poverty in ministry, urged his congregation to focus on wealth creation to fully serve God. He argued that poverty “kills ministry,” citing Apostle Babalola as an example, saying the revered revivalist died poor and left no lasting inheritance for his children.
The remarks sparked immediate backlash, with the CAC condemning Fatoyinbo as a “prosperity pastor” who exploits the altar and monetizes spiritual gifts in a society already plagued by moral decline. The church defended Apostle Babalola’s legacy, insisting he was far from poor. According to the CAC, Babalola drove some of the best cars of his time, funded numerous students through education, supported businesses, financed weddings, and uplifted countless families.
They further noted that Babalola’s global influence was recognized when Queen Elizabeth II honored him in 1956—proof that his ministry was not defined by material wealth. The church emphasized that the measure of anointing is spiritual, not financial, and prayed for wisdom for Fatoyinbo.
Babalola’s eldest daughter, Mama Ogini, also weighed in, stressing that her father’s impact continues to resonate 66 years after his death.
Nigerians remain divided over the controversy: some argue that the CAC should have ignored Fatoyinbo to deny him relevance, while others believe the fiery response was necessary to defend the legacy of one of Nigeria’s most revered apostles.
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