Suspended RCCG Pastor Iluyomade Launches New Ministry in Lagos

Pastor Iluyomade, recently suspended from the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has launched a new ministry in Lagos, drawing attention from the Christian community.

Pastor Idowu Iluyomade, previously suspended from the City of David Parish of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has started a new chapter in his spiritual path by founding The Family Fellowship ministry in Lagos.

The ministry’s first service, conducted on Sunday at the Civic Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos, was a joyous event marked by dancing and celebration.

A video of the joyful event went viral on Monday morning, featuring Iluyomade and members energetically worshipping together.

Iluyomade used Instagram to announce the new fellowship and extend an invitation to the public. “We are thrilled to invite everyone to The Family Fellowship,” he expressed, emphasizing the ministry’s goal of promoting unity and worship among believers.

He penned the invitation: “The Family Fellowship cordially invites you to join us tomorrow at the Civic Centre for a meaningful time in the Lord’s presence. It promises to be an exceptional experience.”

Iluyomade, who previously served as the senior pastor of City of David Parish, was suspended by RCCG in 2024. This action followed an elaborate 60th birthday celebration hosted by his wife, Pastor Siju, shortly after the tragic deaths of Herbert Wigwe—an esteemed church member and former CEO of Access Bank—and his family.

Many criticized the timing of the celebration, seeing it as insensitive since it occurred only weeks after Wigwe’s passing in a helicopter crash in the United States.

Before his untimely death, Wigwe had been a major supporter of the church.

In response to the backlash, the RCCG Governing Council assembled a panel to look into the issue.

In June 2024, Iluyomade and his wife were suspended for three months and directed to worship at the church’s headquarters in Ebute Metta.

The couple attracted even more attention when they were uninvited from the Wigwe family’s funeral following their suspension.

The Iluyomades have now founded their own ministry to further their spiritual mission.