The Global Senior Pastor of the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA), Rev. Biodun Fatoyinbo, has publicly apologized to the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) and the family of its late founder, Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola, over comments in one of his sermons that sparked controversy.

In a statement dated August 14, 2025, Fatoyinbo clarified that his remarks were misconstrued and stressed that he holds Apostle Babalola, his children, and his ministry in the highest regard.

“I will never in any way take lightly the grace over Apostle Babalola, his children or his ministry,” Fatoyinbo stated, adding that he grew up in the CAC and remains a beneficiary of the late cleric’s spiritual legacy.

He commended the CAC for addressing the matter “in an exemplary Christian manner” and lauded the contributions of Apostle Babalola to Christianity in Nigeria and beyond, describing him as “a most distinguished father of faith.”

Fatoyinbo also praised the late Apostle’s children, noting that they are “shining examples of generational impact” and worthy role models for children of visionaries.

“I appreciate the fact that a church I personally love, admire and respect would be so kind and magnanimous enough to address the issues which have been misconstrued in an exemplary Christian manner. I am indeed grateful.

The exploits of Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola, which in the video I stated explicitly are too numerous to count remains the hall mark of most Christian organizations in Nigeria and beyond till this very moment.

Indeed many of the churches in this part of the world take their DNA either directly or indirectly from the ministry and grace over the life of Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola of which I cannot but also state categorically that I am a beneficiary.

I am therefore honored, humbled and grateful for every word, admonition and correction in the statement issued this morning by CAC. I am a child who grew up in the church and cannot erase that part of my formative years.

Let me state however that at no time in the sermon did I refer to the children of the late Apostle and Father of faith in bad light. I would never do that. The raw copy of the message is online and this can be verified.

Our church is known worldwide as a place of Honor and I would never in any way of manner take lightly the grace over Apostle Babalola, his children or his ministry for granted or speak lightly of same.

I am also aware that the children of the late Veteran of faith, who are all serving God and keeping up the legacy of our late father of faith are not only shining examples of generational impact, but good and present day examples for children of visionaries to follow.

I remain proud of their achievements and honor them in no small measure.

Finally, I apologize if any other statement made by me has caused any form of distress, hurt or discontentment to the CAC, the family of the late Apostle Babalola or his associates.

I will never disrespect or speak of them in that manner either publicly or privately.

I pray that this puts to rest the entire episode and we pray that the CAC and the legacy of our father Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola, continues to grow in leaps and bounds, he concluded.