In a decisive move following months of internal controversies, the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has appointed Pastor Kayode Pitan, a former Managing Director of the Bank of Industry (BOI), as the new Senior Pastor of the City of David Parish in Lagos.
This appointment follows the suspension of the former Senior Pastor, Idowu Iluyomade, who faced allegations of corruption and refusal to comply with a church transfer directive.
The appointment of Pitan marks a significant shift in leadership for the City of David, one of RCCG’s most prominent parishes. The decision comes two months after Iluyomade’s suspension, during which Pastor Charles Kpandei temporarily assumed leadership of the parish. However, with Pitan’s new role, Kpandei will step aside as Pitan takes over the responsibilities of managing both the parish and the ongoing Trinity Tower Project.
Although Pitan’s appointment was not formally announced at RCCG’s recently concluded national convention, sources within the church have confirmed that his promotion and appointment effectively signal the end of Iluyomade’s tenure at the City of David Parish. This leadership change is seen as a strategic decision by RCCG’s Governing Council to restore stability and confidence in the church’s administration.
Pitan’s extensive experience in the corporate world, particularly his successful tenure as Managing Director of BOI, is believed to have been a crucial factor in his selection. The RCCG leadership is confident that his financial acumen and management skills will be instrumental in overseeing the City of David Parish and ensuring the smooth execution of the Trinity Tower Project, a major initiative that has been closely associated with the parish.
The Trinity Tower Project, a high-profile development in Lagos, has been a focal point for the City of David Parish, and its successful completion is seen as a priority for the church. Pitan’s corporate background is expected to bring a new level of expertise and oversight to the project, ensuring that it progresses without the setbacks that have plagued it in the past.
Despite the clear direction from the RCCG leadership, sources indicate that Iluyomade has remained silent on the developments surrounding his suspension and Pitan’s appointment. While he has not publicly commented on the decision, it is widely speculated that he is uncomfortable with the outcome. As of now, it remains uncertain whether Iluyomade will continue to serve within the RCCG or seek other avenues outside the church.
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With his new appointment, Pastor Kayode Pitan will now serve as the Pastor-in-Charge of Region 20, a significant administrative unit within RCCG, with the City of David Parish serving as its headquarters. In this role, Pitan will be responsible for overseeing the spiritual and administrative functions of the region, a task that will require both his pastoral and managerial skills.
Supporting Pitan in his new role is Pastor Ben Akabueze, who has been appointed as the Assistant Pastor at the City of David. Akabueze, who brings his own wealth of experience, is expected to work closely with Pitan to ensure the continued growth and stability of the parish.
This leadership transition at the City of David Parish is being closely watched by RCCG members and observers, given the prominence of the parish within the church’s global network. The parish, known for its influential congregation and significant contributions to RCCG’s mission, has long been a symbol of the church’s presence in Lagos and beyond.
The RCCG Governing Council’s decision to appoint Pitan reflects a broader strategy of integrating leadership with strong corporate and financial management capabilities, particularly in parishes like City of David that are involved in large-scale projects. This approach is expected to enhance the church’s ability to manage its resources effectively while maintaining its spiritual mission.
As the RCCG moves forward with this new leadership at the City of David Parish, the church community will be looking to Pastor Kayode Pitan to lead with integrity and vision, ensuring that the parish continues to thrive both spiritually and materially.
His success in this role will likely be a key factor in shaping the future direction of RCCG, particularly in its efforts to balance spiritual growth with organizational excellence.
