The Global Senior Pastor of the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA), Rev. Biodun Fatoyinbo, has issued a statement addressing recent media reports suggesting he made unflattering remarks about the family of the late Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola, the revered founder of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC).
In his press release, Fatoyinbo acknowledged the CAC’s official statement on the matter, describing it as “exemplary” and expressing gratitude for the church’s magnanimity in addressing the issue.
“I appreciate the fact that a church I personally love, admire and respect would be so kind and magnanimous enough to address the issues which have been misconstrued in an exemplary Christian manner. I am indeed grateful,” he said.
Fatoyinbo stressed that his admiration for Apostle Babalola’s ministry remains steadfast, noting that the legendary cleric’s exploits have shaped countless Christian organisations in Nigeria and beyond.
“The exploits of Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola, which in the video I stated explicitly are too numerous to count, remain the hallmark of most Christian organizations in Nigeria and beyond till this very moment,” he said. “I cannot but also state categorically that I am a beneficiary.”
He firmly denied ever speaking ill of Apostle Babalola’s children.
“At no time in the sermon did I refer to the children of the late Apostle and Father of faith in bad light. I would never do that. The raw copy of the message is online and this can be verified,” Fatoyinbo stated.
Pledging his respect for the Babalola family, he described the late Apostle’s children as “shining examples of generational impact” and “good and present-day examples for children of visionaries to follow.”
Fatoyinbo concluded by offering an apology to the CAC, the family of Apostle Babalola, and their associates if any of his past statements caused distress.
“I will never disrespect or speak of them in that manner either publicly or privately. I pray that this puts to rest the entire episode and we pray that the CAC and the legacy of our father Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola, continues to grow in leaps and bounds,” he said.
