Pastor Charles Kpandei assumed his new role at the Redeemed Christian Church of God’s City of David parish in Lagos State on Sunday, taking over from former Pastor Idowu Iluyomade.
Upon his arrival, Kpandei introduced himself to the congregation and delivered a sermon on the topic of heaven, Church Times reported.
During the second service, Kpandei encouraged members to warmly welcome one another, saying, “Are you really happy to be in church today? For those of you who are just coming for the second service, it is important to tell you that I am called Pastor Charles Kpandei.”
“You need that name because you are going to tell somebody that on behalf of Pastor Charles Kpandei, you are welcome to church today,” he said.
Before delivering the main message, he prayed for God’s favor upon the City of David parish, referencing Nehemiah 13:14.
The report also mentioned that the parish is undergoing an audit by a reputable firm amid allegations of a N320 million debt, following the suspension of former Pastor Idowu Iluyomade on June 1, 2024.
Iluyomade faced a three-month suspension by the church’s Governing Council following an investigation into allegations against him and the parish.
He was directed to resume at the church’s headquarters after the suspension, while Pastor Charles Kpandei of the Resurrection Parish Region 11 took over his position.
The pastor, known as PID, received a suspension letter two weeks prior, which stemmed from controversies surrounding the elaborate 60th birthday celebration of his wife, Siju, shortly after the death of Herbert Wigwe, the former CEO of Access Bank and a notable church member.
Allegations against Iluyomade ranged from issues regarding the church’s audit to reported resistance against being transferred from the parish.
However, a church source, preferring anonymity, revealed that the parish is undergoing an audit by KPMG, an external auditor not affiliated with RCCG’s financial and audit practices. This audit became necessary due to the lack of previous RCCG audits in many provinces under the Apapa Family.
During a Sunday service on June 9, a pastor disclosed to the congregation that approximately N15 million was spent on constructing the Trinity Tower between June 1 and 8. However, it was also highlighted that the parish has an outstanding debt of N320 million, as indicated on the financial sheet displayed during the service.
