“Biblically Flawed” – CAC Fires Back at Fatoyinbo’s Claim Apostle Babalola Died Poor

The Christ Apostolic Church has strongly criticised Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo, leader of the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly, over his remarks concerning the late Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola. Pastor Fatoyinbo was reported to have said that despite the great anointing upon Apostle Babalola, he died poor, while questioning the whereabouts of his children.

In a statement issued on Thursday by its Director of Publicity, Pastor Ade Alawode, the church described the comment as both insensitive and inaccurate. Alawode said Apostle Babalola lived a dignified life without using the pulpit for personal enrichment, and that linking ministerial success to material wealth is contrary to biblical teaching. Citing Luke 12:15, he stressed that a person’s life does not consist in material possessions, adding that Fatoyinbo’s teaching promotes greed and moral decline.

The statement also addressed Fatoyinbo’s question about the late apostle’s children, noting that Babalola had children who are still alive, well, and serving God quietly. It highlighted that the revered evangelist, who was called to ministry in 1928, made significant sacrifices, supported education, fed the poor, and gave property to the church.

Alawode pointed out that Apostle Babalola was recognised nationally, including being among those honoured during Queen Elizabeth II’s visit to Nigeria in 1956, and that he owned respectable property and vehicles in his lifetime without exploiting worshippers. The church maintained that his true legacy lies in the lasting spiritual impact he made, with his influence still inspiring countless people more than six decades after his passing.