The Celestial Church of Christ, Acts of Apostle Parish, Ketu, Alapere, Lagos, has been embroiled in a leadership crisis following a N5 million donation from the church authority for renovation and clergy house construction. The conflict escalated during a Sunday service when Muyiwa Oluponna, who claims to be a son of the church’s founder, disrupted proceedings to assert his authority.
Oluponna allegedly seized the microphone from acting shepherd Adetayo Adetola during the sermon, declaring his right to preach every second Sunday of the month and demanding control over the donated funds. A viral video of the incident captured heated arguments between Oluponna and church members, leading the church’s task force, led by Akinbode Adjovi, to shut the parish for 40 days to restore order.
Allegations and Disruptions
Adetola recounted that Oluponna interrupted the service, claiming the N5 million donation belonged to his family rather than the church. “He demanded that the money be handed to his family, insisting the church was their property,” Adetola said. Despite Adetola’s attempts to resume the sermon, Oluponna reportedly seized another microphone, prompting resistance from church members.
The parish shepherd, Emmanuel Iperepolu, alleged Oluponna had been a recurring source of tension, threatening him and other church members. Iperepolu linked Oluponna’s actions to the announcement of the donation, saying, “He has been abusive and threatening even before this incident, but the money appears to have escalated matters.”
Church Authorities Respond
The CCC headquarters has intervened, shutting the church temporarily to prevent further unrest. Head of Media and Publicity, Kayode Ajala, explained, “The church is God’s house, but we must ensure safety and order. Investigations are ongoing, and the church will reopen once the issues are resolved.”
Ajala confirmed that discussions with all parties involved are underway to reach a resolution.
Family’s Stance
When questioned, Oluponna refrained from commenting on the crisis, stating it was a matter between his family and the church.
The church authority has also involved law enforcement and initiated mediation efforts, hoping to resolve the dispute and restore peace to the parish.
