Pastor Idowu Iluyomade, a former senior pastor at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, City of David Parish, has launched a new ministry in Lagos named The Family Fellowship.
The inaugural service of the ministry was held on Sunday at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, and was marked by an atmosphere of celebration, music, and dancing. A video of the event went viral on Monday, showing Pastor Iluyomade and members jubilating during the service.
Announcing the ministry on Instagram, Iluyomade invited the public to join the fellowship. In his post, he wrote: “The Family Fellowship invites you specially. Join us tomorrow at the Civic Centre for a special time in the Lord’s presence. Promises to be a great experience.”
Pastor Iluyomade’s departure from the RCCG came after a controversial suspension in 2024.
The RCCG Governing Council had suspended him and his wife, Pastor Siju Iluyomade, following backlash over an elaborate celebration of her 60th birthday.
The birthday event took place shortly after the tragic death of Herbert Wigwe—a prominent church supporter and former Access Bank CEO—alongside his wife and son in a helicopter crash in the United States.
Critics labeled the celebration as poorly timed and insensitive, given the proximity to the Wigwe family’s tragedy.
Subsequently, a panel was convened to address the controversy. In June 2024, the couple was suspended for three months and reassigned to worship at the church’s headquarters in Ebute Metta. They were also notably absent from the Wigwe family’s funeral.
With the launch of The Family Fellowship, the Iluyomades have embarked on a new chapter in their spiritual journey, continuing their ministry independently of RCCG. The initiative is expected to attract members seeking a fresh worship experience under their leadership.
