The recent statement made by Rev. Gabriel Evans, the shepherd of CCC City of David in Ibadan, during his investiture as Reverend has sparked a heated debate within the Nigeria Diocese. After Prophet Evans made a glaring historical error regarding the selection of the late Rev. Pastor AA Bada as the successor to the Pastor Founder Rev. SBJ Oshoffa, he has faced relentless criticism for his every word.
In response to his bold claim that the Nigeria Diocese under Rev. Pastor Beni Omoge and his faction harboured a secret unknown to their followers, alleging that Rev. Pastor Beni Omoge’s selection was a coup against the interests of Rev. Pastor Maforikan, who had declared him after being misled by some members.
The Nigeria Diocese, through an official post on Rev. Pastor Beni Omoge’s page, conducted an online interview with the Most Superior Evangelist Ayo Ugbe, whom Prophet Evans had referred to as his witness to the alleged secret of the Pastorship selection. Prophet Evans also asserted that he was anointed with the rank of Most Superior Evangelist on the same day as Ayo Ugbe, claiming to be his close friend.
However, in the 26:39-minute interview, Most Superior Evangelist Ayo Ugbe vehemently denied being a close associate of Prophet Evans or sharing any secrets with him. He clarified that their interactions were limited to meeting at Eleko for diocese programs. Most Superior Evangelist Ayo Ugbe boldly labelled Prophet Evans as a liar and an unreliable individual.
During the online interview, Rev Odewenwa emphatically stated that there were no secret acts involved in the selection of Rev Pastor Beni Omoge. He expressed confusion over Prophet Evan’s claims, as he personally witnessed all the activities during the time of Late Rev Pastor Marofikan and the selection of his successor.
Most Superior Evangelist Oluwasegun Williams, General Superintendent of Oyo State under Nigeria Diocese also weighed in on the matter. He provided a detailed explanation regarding the controversial statement attributed to Prophet Evans, expressing surprise at the allegations. M/S/E Williams revealed that he had a private conversation with Late Rev Pastor Marofikan about his successor, emphasizing the importance of addressing the issue due to its historical significance within the Ketu faction.
M/S/E Williams recounted a pivotal moment when Late Rev Marofikan finally addressed the question of succession, revealing the history of Celestial Church of Christ and his own journey within the fold. He described a powerful revelation given by Late Rev Marofikan, which solidified Rev Pastor Beni Omoge as the rightful successor.
During the online conference, M/S/E Williams revealed that he had the honour of reading the late Rev Pastor Marofikan’s speech. He stood behind the Pastor as he delivered the speech, following a private conversation they had prior to the announcement. M/S/E Williams shared that he read the press statement to affirm the authenticity of the authors and confirmed that Rev Pastor Marofikan had personally informed him of his successor, Rev Beni Omoge.
He said the declaration took place in Eleko, Lagos State, in a public gathering, and Rev Pastor Marofikan did not issue any additional press statements. M/S/E Williams also criticized Prophet Evan’s remarks regarding seating arrangements, stating that he had advised Rev Pastor Marofikan to make a public announcement about the seating arrangements following the appointment of Rev Beni Omoge. He emphasized that Rev Pastor Marofikan said anyone who go against his laid down instructions would receive negative consequences.
When questioned further, Most Superior Evangelist Ayo Ugbe publicly refuted any claims of secrecy with Prophet Evans. He declared that on 4th November 2024, he had denounced any hidden agreements with Prophet Evans and challenged him to reveal any supposed secrets. M/S/E Ugbe clarified that he had no contact with Prophet Evans, had not engaged in personal conversations with him, and did not have any personal relationship with him. He urged Prophet Evans to come forward and disclose any information he claimed to possess, as he distanced himself from any association with the Prophet.
M/S/E Williams emphasized that Rev Pastor Beni Omoge has served as Pastor for 10 years, following his declaration as Pastor prior to the passing of the Late Reverend Pastor Marofikan. He said it was noted that the Late Rev Pastor Marofikan re-anointed Rev Pastor Beni Omoge at Eleko in the presence of all members, although the phone containing footage of this event has been lost.
M/S/E Williams clarified the information provided by Sunday Super on his Facebook page, stating that the General Superintendent of Oyo State confirmed that there was no violence during the selection and declaration of Reverend Pastor Beni Omoge. Additionally, it was confirmed that Rev Pastor Beni Omoge has been anointed by Late Rev Marofikan’s instructions, with Late Rev Marofikan’s children driving him to Eleko for the endorsement and approval of Reverend Pastor Beni Omoge to proceed with the anointing ceremony.
