It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Rev. Pastor Esemu Orovboni. His daughter took to her official Facebook page to share the sad news of his demise. Rev. Orovboni, a former shepherd of CCC National Headquarters in Makoko, Lagos State, was born on 22nd November 1932 Agbaroh, Ughelli Local Government Area of present Delta State. He dedicated his life to the church, when he joined in 1953 at Makoko and being baptized the same year by Evangelist Wusu, Koonu, Isawo, Ikorodu, Lagos.
Throughout his years of service, Rev. Orovboni held various important positions within the church, including General Secretary of Celestial Church of Christ WorldWide. He was a pioneer in his field, becoming the very first State Evangelist in regions such as Benin City and Akure Town. Rev Pastor Stephen Orovboni was among the first twelve Elders of the rank Senior Evangelist to be elevated to the title of Most Senior Evangelist by Rev Pastor A.A. Bada in 1987. He served as one of the Executive Ruling Members of the Church WorldWide during Pastor Bada’s tenure.
During a critical period when the church was facing division, Rev Orovboni was in London. Upon his return, he courageously advocated for truth and honesty to prevail, even at the risk of his own positions within the church. Unfortunately, he was unjustly removed from his roles as the Rector of CCC Seminary School and Shepherd in Charge of CCC National Headquarters, Makoko, Lagos State.
In response to this injustice, Rev Orovboni aligned himself with the Nigeria Diocese, drawn to their commitment to integrity and principles. When Rev Gilbert Jesse was appointed Pastor by a faction of the church, Rev Orovboni assumed the role of the first Assistant Head of the Nigerian Diocese. Subsequently, when Pastor Baba P.S. Maforikan succeeded Reverend Jesse, Rev Orovboni was appointed as the Head of the Nigeria Diocese following the departure of Most Senior Evangelist Are.
In recognition of his unwavering dedication and leadership, Rev Orovboni was appointed as a Reverend Pastor by a faction of the Church in 2006, a position he held until 9th May 2025. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, and his contributions to the church will never be forgotten.
Rest in peace, Rev. Pastor Orovboni
