CAN Issues Stern Warning to Rev. Isaac Omolehin Over Controversial Comments on Adeboye, Oyedepo, and Kumuyi

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has officially cautioned the founder of Word Assembly Ministry, Ilorin, Rev. Isaac Omolehin, following public remarks that questioned the leadership hierarchy of the Nigerian Church and referenced legendary clerics in a manner the body deemed “inflammatory.”

In a strongly-worded statement released on Wednesday by CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the association moved to defend the reputations of Pastor Enoch Adeboye, Bishop David Oyedepo, and Pastor William Kumuyi. CAN expressed deep concern over a widely circulated video where Omolehin critiqued the concept of “spiritual fathers,” arguing that these leaders should be viewed strictly as denominational heads rather than fathers of the entire Christian body in Nigeria.

In the sermon, Omolehin claimed that the Nigerian Church is rife with rivalry and “spiritual competition,” citing the race to build massive auditoriums and acquire private aircraft as evidence of a lack of spiritual content. He argued that a true father would look after the entire body of Christ rather than promoting a specific denominational agenda.

Archbishop Okoh dismissed these claims as baseless, asserting that such rhetoric is capable of undermining the unity of the Church and inciting unnecessary tension among the faithful. “CAN will not tolerate the spread of falsehoods or any attempt to malign the Church,” the statement declared, warning that further defamatory claims could lead to legal action to protect the integrity of the Christian community.

Furthermore, CAN utilized the opportunity to debunk allegations of internal division and the mismanagement of relief funds. The association clarified that it has not received or managed any relief funds as alleged by Omolehin, describing the accusations as “unfounded and deliberately misleading.”

The association’s firm stance serves as a “final caution” to individuals using their platforms to disseminate unverified claims that could threaten national cohesion. As the debate continues on social media between those defending Omolehin’s critique of denominationalism and those loyal to the established patriarchs, CAN has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a united front within the body of Christ.