The Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) has condemned recent comments by Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo of the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA) about the late Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola, describing them as “insensitive, ill-informed, and biblically flawed.”
In a statement signed by its Director of Publicity, Pastor Ade Alawode, the church said it ordinarily avoids responding to social media controversies but felt compelled to address Fatoyinbo’s remarks for the sake of scriptural truth and to defend the legacy of its first General Evangelist.
Fatoyinbo, in a trending YouTube sermon, acknowledged Babalola’s anointing but said he “had no money” and sarcastically asked, “Where are his children?”
Pastor Alawode faulted this narrative, warning that equating ministerial success with material wealth contradicts the teachings of Jesus.
“The Scriptures do not teach that money is a sign of anointing. Rather, ‘the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil’ (1 Timothy 6:10). Which Bible do you read and preach from?” he asked.
The statement clarified that Apostle Babalola, called into ministry in 1928 at the age of 24, was blessed but not materialistic. He donated land to the church, supported education, fed the poor, and lived sacrificially. He was honoured by the colonial government and was among the special guests at the reception for Queen Elizabeth II during her 1956 visit to Nigeria.
CAC also debunked Fatoyinbo’s insinuation about Babalola’s family, affirming that his children — Mama Eunice Wuraola Ogini and Apeke Adeniyi — are alive, blessed, and serving the Lord quietly without ostentation.
More than 66 years after his passing, the church said, Babalola’s legacy continues to inspire generations through his sacrificial ministry and enduring impact.
Quoting Luke 12:15, Pastor Alawode reiterated: “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”
