Suspended Redeemed Pastor, Iluyomade, Opens New Ministry in Lagos

Pastor Idowu Iluyomade, a suspended pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, City of David Parish, has launched a new ministry in Lagos called The Family Fellowship.

A video was released Monday morning showing Pastor Iluyomade celebrating with members at the inaugural service held at the Civic Center in Victoria Island, Lagos.

The Sunday morning service was filled with joyful dancing and rejoicing.

Announcing this new ministry on Instagram, Iluyomade invited the public to join the fellowship.

He wrote Join us tomorrow at the Civic Center for a special time in the presence of the Lord. It promises to be a wonderful experience.”

Iluyomade, who was the lead pastor of City of David Parish, was suspended from the RCCG in 2024 after his wife, Rev. Siju, hosted an elaborate 60th birthday celebration shortly after the tragic death of prominent church member and former CEO of Access Bank, Herbert Wigwe, who died with his wife and son.

Wigwe was suspended from the RCCG in 2024. Many criticized the timing of the celebration, which took place only weeks after Wigwe was killed in a helicopter crash in the United States, as insensitive.

Wigwe had been an important supporter of the church until his untimely death.

In response to the outcry, the RCCG Governing Council convened a committee to investigate the matter, and in June 2024 the Iluyomade and his wife were suspended for three months and reassigned to worship at the church headquarters in Ebute Metta.

The couple’s suspension was further highlighted by the fact that they were not invited to the Wigwe family funeral.

Currently, the Iluyomades are establishing their own ministry to continue their spiritual mission.