Pastor Idowu Iluyomade, who was suspended by the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has inaugurated a new ministry called The Family Fellowship in Lagos. The inaugural service took place on Sunday at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, and was marked by an atmosphere of celebration, worship, and excitement.
In a video widely circulated on Monday morning, Iluyomade was seen leading the service, joined by enthusiastic members of the congregation. The event featured joyous singing, dancing, and praise, as attendees celebrated the birth of the new fellowship.
Announcing the launch via his Instagram account, Iluyomade extended an open invitation to the public, urging them to experience what he described as “a special time in the Lord’s presence.”
In his post, he stated, “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.”
This development follows a challenging chapter in Iluyomade’s career as a pastor. In 2024, he and his wife, Pastor Siju Iluyomade, faced suspension from RCCG after a controversy surrounding the timing of a high-profile birthday celebration.
The event was held just weeks after the tragic death of Herbert Wigwe, a prominent church member and former CEO of Access Bank, who passed away in a helicopter crash along with his wife and son.
Critics deemed the celebration insensitive, leading RCCG’s Governing Council to convene a panel that investigated the matter. As a result, the couple was suspended for three months and reassigned to worship at RCCG’s headquarters in Ebute Metta.
The suspension also led to their exclusion from the Wigwe family’s funeral, further intensifying public attention on the matter. Despite these challenges, the Iluyomades have now taken a significant step in their spiritual journey by establishing The Family Fellowship.
