Under the spiritual leadership of Pa SBJ Oshoffa, a well-organized plan was put in place to bring the dream city of Imeko to life. Plots of land were purchased with the Pastor Founder explicitly stating that Imeko would become the Jerusalem of the Church.
In an autobiography penned by one of the senior daughters of the Pastor Founder, it was revealed that certain individuals were anointed to the rank of Honorary Senior Evangelist (HSE). Their purpose was to provide financial assistance for the Church to fund the Imeko project. This was a testament to the Pastor Founder’s commitment to realizing his vision.
Regrettably, unforeseen circumstances led to the abandonment of the project for several years. The Imeko City including the Basilica became a source of frustration for Church members who were disheartened by the lackadaisical approach towards its restoration. However, it is crucial to note that efforts were not entirely in vain.
Thanks to the assistance of God and the tireless dedication of MSE Banjo, MSE Nunayon, VSE Ogunremi, Superior Evangelist Pius Olarewaju, Brother Gbenga Daniel as well as parishes in Nigeria, USA Diocese & UK Diocese where billions of naira were contributed towards the completion of the Basilica. Furthermore, plans are underway to initiate other aspects of the city project such as modern hospital, university, quality roads and economic policies to drive banks, electricity, solar installations, and more.
Pastor EMF Oshoffa expressed his deep appreciation for the unwavering commitment of the registered Board of Trustees (BOT) during the 2018 Imeko Convention while delivering his sermon. The service conductor, VSE Adeyinka patiently prayed for both the BOT members and the dedicated individuals who supported the Pastor Founder’s vision. While MSE Nunayon specifically mentioned the Nigeria Diocese, USA Diocese & UK Diocese has the brain beside the completion of the Basilica during the 7 Elders prayers.
However, the aftermath of these events will undoubtedly become a significant part of the Church’s history for generations to come.
Since the dissolution of the registered BOT, there has been a noticeable lack of substantial progress within Imeko City. Members have struggled to recognize the value of the seriousness injected by Superior Evangelist Pius Olarewaju, VSE Ogunremi, Brother Gbenga Daniel and others.
Regrettably, the Church authority has consistently appointed various committees to manage the Church convention without proper preparation or arrangement. Instead, their focus has primarily been on raising funds from members for the annual convention.
One astonishing event that took attention was the fundraising dinner schedule to hold in an HOTEL. The Church authority announced that the 2023 Fundraising Dinner will be held on October 13th, 2023, at the Radisson Blu Hotel in GRA Ikeja, Lagos. It is surprising that the Church authority chose to host a gathering of spiritually-minded individuals in a secular venue, seemingly in pursuit of better results.
The premises of CCC National Headquarters Parish Lagos, CCC Ketu International Ketu Lagos, CCC Ire Akari Parish Lagos, CCC Agidingbi Parish Lagos, and others are not merely spaces to gather people, but rather, an hotel will be a conducive environment for a religious organization of 76 years old to gather people.
In February 2023, the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) Throne of God organized a similar fundraising event, amassing an impressive sum of over 12 billion naira. Their objective was to construct a remarkable commercial space known as the Trinity Tower, situated at Victoria Island. It is worth noting that this event took place at the RCCG National Headquarters in Yaba, rather than a hotel.
While the Church authority may attempt to justify their actions by arguing that the invited guests are not members of Celestial Church, it is important to highlight the remarkable achievements of CCC Makoko National Headquarters. Under the leadership of MSE Olarinde, they successfully raised over 50 million naira and their current shepherd, VSE Kiki also managed to raise over 17 million naira. These impressive fundraising efforts were conducted within the confines of their parish without the need for an external hotel venue. Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that non-Celestial members were also invited to attend this event.
In conclusion, it is evident that the premises of various CCC parishes will serve as more than just gathering spaces. They embody a sense of reverence and provide a suitable environment for the Pastor & other invited guests. The comparison to the RCCG fundraising event further emphasizes the significance of these premises, as they successfully hosted their own fundraising initiatives without the need for external venues.
In order to ensure the Church’s continued growth and success, it is crucial for the Church authority to prioritize effective leadership, proper planning and a clear vision. By doing so, they can inspire and engage members fostering a sense of unity and purpose within the Church.
It is our hope that the Church authority will recognize the importance of these factors and take the necessary steps to steer the Church towards a brighter future, one that truly reflects the spiritual values and aspirations of its members.
