The City of David Parish in Lekki, Lagos, part of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has suspended Pastor Idowu Iluyomade. This decision came after his wife, Siju Iluyomade, a lawyer, pastor, and founder of the Arise Women Foundation, threw a lavish 60th birthday party shortly after the tragic death of Herbert Wigwe, former CEO of Access Holdings and a prominent RCCG member.

Wigwe’s Death RCCG Suspends Pastor After Wife’s Lavish Birthday Celebration

Wigwe, his wife, their son, and a family friend died in a helicopter crash in the United States in February 2024, as reported by Legit.ng. The timing and opulence of Siju Iluyomade’s birthday celebration, held just days after the tragedy, sparked public outrage and led to her husband’s suspension from his pastoral duties.

The Suspension of Pastor Iluyomade

ChurchTimes reports that the decision to suspend Pastor Iluyomade was made by the RCCG governing council, not Pastor Adeboye, the General Overseer. A senior pastor within the church, who requested anonymity, shared insights into the decision-making process. “It was not Pastor Adeboye that suspended him. The governing council decided to suspend him. I think it’s a decision in the right direction. Though some believe it is coming late. They needed to investigate some of the things people were saying against him and the church,” the source said.

Implementation of the Suspension

According to sources within the church, Pastor Iluyomade’s suspension was communicated via a letter over the weekend, as reported by Daily Trust. Following his suspension, Pastor Charles Kpandei of the RCCG Resurrection Parish in Region 11 has been appointed to replace him.

Details of Wigwe’s Death

Herbert Wigwe, a prominent member of the City of David Parish, died in a helicopter crash in February 2024. The crash also claimed the lives of his wife, Chizoba; their son, Chizi; and Abimbola Ogunbanjo, former Group Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group). The sudden and tragic loss of the Wigwe family sent shockwaves through the community.

Controversy Surrounding the Birthday Party

Dr. Siju Iluyomade’s extravagant birthday party, held at Eko Hotels and Suites on Victoria Island, Lagos, shortly after the tragic deaths, drew significant criticism. The celebration featured distinguished guests and was perceived by many as insensitive given the recent loss of such prominent members of the church. The timing of the celebration, just weeks after the deaths, was seen as inappropriate and disrespectful, leading to widespread public discontent and ultimately the suspension of her husband from his pastoral role.

The RCCG’s decision to suspend Pastor Iluyomade highlights the importance of sensitivity and respect within the community, especially in the face of such tragic events. The church aims to maintain its integrity and uphold the values it represents, ensuring that its leaders are held accountable for their actions.

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