When a leader consistently disregards the input of their lieutenants in making important decisions, such leader risk becoming autocratic and self-serving, neglecting the sacrifices made by those around them. This lack of collaboration can lead to a disconnect between the leader and their followers, ultimately hindering the success of the organization.
The recent directives issued by Pastor Rev EMF Oshoffa to the 8 Most Senior clergies under his supervision have sparked controversy within the congregation. Many members feel that the language used in these directives was disrespectful towards the senior Clergies, who have dedicated over 50 years of their lives to serving the church.
In a well-functioning administrative structure, leaders are expected to carefully consider all perspectives before making important decisions. Unfortunately, the church has been subjected to ineffective leadership that has failed to embrace modern approaches to management and conflict resolution.
The public backlash following the release of these directives is a clear indication of the lack of communication and respect shown towards the 8 Most Senior Clergies. The recent news that has gone viral is a significant blow to the sacrifices made by the 8 Most Senior Clergies. The Pastor’s office failed to communicate with them through a confidential letter, opting instead to publicly criticize them online. Its believed that leaders must maintain open and confidential lines of communication with their team members, rather than resorting to public insults.
It is widely believed that when the Pastor is making decisions regarding doctrinal practices, he should first consult with the 8 senior Clergies before informing the Church. These meetings would allow him to gather ideas and feedback. Unfortunately, 90% of decisions are made without any prior notification to the Most Senior Evangelists. The senior Clergies have been relegated to mere spectators, as the final decisions are made by the QUEEN at Mogodo, Lagos State.
The Pastor has been increasingly tightening his control over the church funds, with all anointment money and monthly returns being managed by a single individual. The registered Board of Trustees believes that these funds should be allocated towards modern infrastructure in Imeko City, in order for Celestial Church of Christ to compete with other prominent churches. However, this proposal was met with rejection and condemnation from some of the Most Senior Evangelists whom were place on stipends, without considering the long-term implications for the Church. The axe who stopped the modern infrastructure at Imeko as been extended to the Most Superior Evangelist after some of them failed to speak for justice, equality and respect.
It was a tradition that Late Rev. AA Bada would personally visit the building next to his house upon returning from abroad, to give dollars to the wives of the Pastor Founder and Late Baba Ajelekoko, as well as all the lieutenants who worked in the Pastor’s Office. However, this practice has since faded out. When the current Pastor returns from his annual trip abroad, neither the children of Late Baba Bada nor the children of Late Baba Ajelekoko receive chocolate sweets.
Late Rev AA Bada
Many of the eight senior clergies have spiritual sons and daughters in the USA, UK, Canada, and other European countries. These individuals often invite them to Adult Harvest Thanksgiving as a way to show gratitude for the fatherly role they played in guiding them through difficult challenges with prayers. Despite the fact that the Pastor does not include any of the eight Most Superior Evangelists in his trips to abroad, he still feels uncomfortable seeing them succeed.
The Pastor has granted permission to junior shepherds to disrespect, insult, and assault the eight senior clergies – Baba Oshin, Baba Nunayon, Baba Ajao, Baba Olarinde, Baba Akindoyin, Baba Amadasu, Baba Fatusin, and Baba Agbaje – if they visit your parish without an authorization letter. It is advised not to allow any of them to speak from the pulpit or hold the microphone.
During the Pastor’s 75th birthday celebration in Imeko in 2023, the Prophetess Deborah Oshoffa openly expressed concerns to the Pastor. She mentioned that those who supported him during his 70th birthday had since parted ways with him. She questioned whether the Pastor would also have conflicts with those who stand by him when he turns 80 years old. Hope the statement of Prophetess Deborah Oshoffa didn’t come to reality.
