RCCG Appoints New Pastor in Wake of Scandal
The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has appointed a new pastor to take over the City of David Parish in Lagos, following a high-profile controversy involving the previous pastor and his wife’s lavish 60th birthday celebration. Pastor Kayode Pitan replaces Pastor Idowu Iluyomade, who was suspended by the church governing council in June 2024 for three months after a public outcry.
According to Church Times, the governing council appointed Pitan during the just-concluded RCCG convention. The appointment marks the end of Iluyomade’s tenure at the City of David parish.
The controversy began with an extravagant 60th birthday party thrown by Pastor Iluyomade’s wife, Siju, which featured popular Nigerian singer Flavour N’abania. A video of the party showed Flavour serenading Siju with his hit songs, including "Ada Ada", "Berna", and "Adamma".
Many online users reacted with surprise and criticism, questioning the timing of the ceremony and the presence of a secular musician at a party hosted by a pastor, considering that it came just a few days after the tragic death of former CEO of Access Bank, Herbert Wigwe, a prominent member of the church.
As a result, the church governing council suspended Iluyomade and replaced him with Pastor Charles Kpandei of RCCG Resurrection Parish, who has been serving as the interim pastor since June.
Prior to his new role, Pastor Pitan served as the Pastor in Charge of the Tabernacle of David in Region 51 and also as the Regional Pastor.
