Controversy Erupts as Pastor Kesiena Rebukes Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo Over Comments on Apostle Ayo Babalola

A doctrinal debate has emerged within the Nigerian Christian community following comments by Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo of the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA) regarding the late Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola. Fatoyinbo’s statements, which suggested that Babalola, despite his immense spiritual anointing, lacked financial prosperity and that his “grace just went like that,” have drawn a sharp response from other ministers.

Reverend Kesiena Esiri is among those who have criticized Fatoyinbo’s position. In a sermon that has since gained traction online, Rev. Esiri directly addressed the comments, defending the legacy of Apostle Babalola and the spiritual fathers of the faith. He argued against the notion that spiritual anointing must be accompanied by material wealth to be considered successful, emphasizing Babalola’s significant impact on Christianity in Nigeria.

The debate has spurred various reactions from Christian leaders and believers, with some supporting Fatoyinbo’s focus on prosperity and others, like Rev. Esiri, emphasizing the enduring spiritual legacy of figures like Babalola. The conversation highlights differing views on the role of wealth in ministry and how the contributions of past revivalists should be honored in the modern church. The daughter of Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola has also weighed in on the issue in an interview.