ILORIN, Nigeria – A major rift has emerged within Nigeria’s religious landscape following a viral sermon by Rev. Isaac Omolehin, founder of The Word Assembly, who openly challenged a long-standing “prophetic decree” made by the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye.
The “Bowing” Debate
The controversy centers on a public declaration by Pastor Adeboye in which he prayed that a time would come when Christians from all other denominations in Nigeria would bow to members of the RCCG. In a video that has resurfaced and gained fresh traction this April, the massive crowd at the Redemption Camp is seen responding with a thunderous “Amen.”
Rev. Omolehin, however, has taken a firm stand against the sentiment. In a pointed message to his congregation, the Ilorin-based cleric questioned the scriptural and fraternal basis of such a prayer. “I heard a leader say that a time is coming that every Christian in Nigeria will bow to members of his church,” Omolehin remarked. “But I ask—will I also bow to Redeem? Does the Bible teach us that one part of the Body of Christ should lord it over another?”
Denominational Heads vs. Spiritual Fathers
Omolehin’s critique extended beyond the specific prayer, sparking a broader conversation about the structure of Nigerian Christianity. He argued that while figures like Enoch Adeboye, William Kumuyi (DCLM), and Daniel Olukoya (MFM) are highly respected, they should be regarded as “denominational heads” rather than universal “fathers of the church” in Nigeria.
“A father provides oversight for everyone, regardless of their label,” Omolehin stated. He lamented that many current leaders are more focused on institutional expansion—citing the competition for the largest auditoriums and private jets—than on the spiritual unity and economic welfare of the entire Christian body. He pointed to reports of Nigerian pastors being among the wealthiest in the world while their congregants struggle with poverty.
CAN Issues Formal Caution
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has moved to douse the tension, issuing a formal statement on April 22, 2026. The association cautioned Rev. Omolehin against making “defamatory or divisive” remarks about elder statesmen of the faith. CAN defended the integrity of the mentioned leaders, describing them as pillars of the faith who have contributed immensely to national development.
Despite the official caution, Omolehin’s “must-watch” video has sparked a fierce debate on social media. While some applaud him for his “boldness” in questioning institutional pride, others have accused him of “disrespecting a father of the faith” and causing unnecessary division.
As of April 27, 2026, the RCCG has not issued an official response to the video, but the incident has once again brought to the fore the deep-seated denominational rivalries that continue to shape religious life in Nigeria.
