The Concerned Christian Youth Forum (CCYF) has dismissed claims that Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo of the Commonwealth Zion Assembly (COZA) insulted the late Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola, founder of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC).
In a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday, CCYF convener James Paul Adama said the remarks attributed to Fatoyinbo had been taken out of context.
He explained that an investigation by the forum found the COZA pastor’s comments had been “regrettably misunderstood and misinterpreted” on social media.
“The statement was never intended to harm or insult Apostle Babalola or his esteemed family in any way,” Adama said.
The forum described Babalola as a towering figure in Nigerian Christianity whose legacy continues to inspire generations of believers.
According to the CCYF, Fatoyinbo affirmed his deep respect for all church fathers and stressed he would never act in a manner that disrespected their memory.
The pastor has also apologised to Babalola’s family, the CAC, and the wider Christian community for any distress caused by the misunderstanding.
The CCYF warned against attempts to sow division among churches, saying those spreading false information “for sensationalism” would face divine judgement.
