…Oladele also tasks Nigerian leaders on focus, citizens’ welfare as economy bites harder
The President of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Nigeria and Overseas, Pastor Samuel Olusegun Oladele, has expressed hope for a lasting resolution to the Church’s 30-year crisis, which was sparked by the suspension of senior ministers.
Speaking during a press conference at the Church’s Pastors’ Conference, held at the Babalola International Miracle Camp, Ikeji Arakeji recently, Oladele highlighted recent efforts toward reconciliation.
He noted that informal meetings and joint prayer sessions between opposing factions suggest that unity is within reach. “We must continue to engage in prayer for peace and unity within the Church,” Oladele urged. The crisis, which has caused a significant division among members, is now showing signs of healing, with the Church leadership taking proactive steps to bridge the divide.
In addition to addressing the internal challenges within the Church, Pastor Oladele turned his focus to the broader socio-economic difficulties affecting Nigerians. He called on political leaders to prioritize the welfare of the people, emphasizing that their positions should be used to alleviate the suffering of the masses. Drawing inspiration from Nigeria’s first republic leaders—Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, and Alhaji Tafawa Balewa—he urged current leaders to follow their example in providing hope and relief to citizens.
“The socio-economic crisis in the country affects everyone, including the Church,” Oladele said, according to a statement by Pastor Ademisoye Alawode, CAC’s Director of Publicity. “Yet, despite these challenges, we are grateful for God’s grace and favor.” He further called on Nigerians to take responsibility for the nation’s prosperity, urging them to pray for peace and development, as instructed in 1 Timothy 2:1-2 and Psalm 122:6.
Pastor Oladele also introduced new Church regulations concerning the invitation of non-CAC ministers to officiate at Church events. He emphasized that all invitations must be approved at least 90 days in advance, with requests processed through District Superintendents to DCC or Regional Superintendents for proper vetting. While collaboration with ministers from other denominations is welcomed, he stressed that those invited must share similar doctrinal beliefs.
As the CAC looks toward reconciliation and the broader challenges facing the nation, Pastor Oladele’s message was clear: leadership, whether within the Church or in government, should focus on bringing hope, unity, and welfare to the people.
Report by Dayo Emmanuel