Society Gists

In a significant development at the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) City of David Parish, Region 20, Victoria Island, Lagos, Pastor Idowu Iluyomade has been transferred, with Pastor Kayode Pitan stepping in as the new pastor.

This change has been confirmed by First Weekly Magazine. Pastor Idowu Iluyomade has been moved to RCCG Throne of Grace, Ebute Metta, Lagos, which serves as the headquarters of the mission. This transfer was officially confirmed on Sunday, June 2, during the monthly thanksgiving service held across all RCCG branches worldwide.

Notably, senior RCCG figures such as retired National Overseer Pastor Obayemi, Pastor Johnson Odesola, and Region 9 leader, Pastor Pandel were present at City of David to implement these changes.

The absence of Pastor Idowu Iluyomade and his wife, Pastor Siju Iluyomade, during the service was particularly unusual, especially for the first Sunday of the month. Reports indicated that the thanksgiving service was unusually brief and Pastor Trevor Akindele, the assistant to Pastor Iluyomade, reportedly took his place during the service. Following the service, an announcement was made for all pastors, ministers, workers, and elders to remain for a meeting, indicating the gravity of the situation.

Pastor Idowu Iluyomade’s new role is at the RCCG Region 1, Ebute Metta, where he will serve as the Pastor-in-Charge of elders. Sources indicated that Pastor Iluyomade is not pleased with the transfer, citing his extensive efforts in building the Trinity Towers, a project worth over 10 billion Naira, which is still indebted to Access Bank.

Additionally, Pastor Iluyomade, who is 65 years old, reportedly expressed dissatisfaction that he has not yet reached the retirement age of 70.

Rumours suggested that the 60th birthday celebration of his wife, Siju Iluyomade, shortly after the death of former Access Bank Managing Director Mr. Herbert Wigwe, might have influenced the decision. Wigwe was said to have played prominent roles in raising money for the building of the new complex of City of David; the Trinity Towers.

Pastor Iluyomade allegedly advised against the celebration, foreseeing potential repercussions. However, sources close to RCCG leadership maintained that pastoral transfers are a routine practice within the mission, typically occurring after a pastor has served several years in one location.