Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo of the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA) has announced a leave of absence from the church’s pulpit.
The embattled pastor, who has come under criticism over rape allegation, announced on Monday via Instagram that he was drawing counsel from Christian leaders and COZA leadership and his ‘love for God’s work’ in his decision to step down.
Busola Dakolo, wife of the singer and songwriter, Timi Dakolo, had on Friday accused Fatoyinbo of raping her about 20 years ago.
The allegation caused a storm over the weekend with many protesters storming the church in Abuja and its branch in Lagos on Sunday to express their displeasure.
“The past few days have been very sobering on me. I have taken time to seek spiritual counsel form Christian leaders around the world who feel very concerned about the ongoing report in the media.
“I have solicited their guidance on actions I should take that is honoring to our Lord Jesus Christ and the work he has called me to do.
“Drawing from their counsel and that of the leadership of COZA and owing to my love for Lord’s work and the sacred honor of my calling I have decided to take a leave of absence from the pulpit of the church.
“Although it would break my heart to tatters to stay a day without doing ministry I believe it is the right thing to do at this time. It is in the interest of the flock of Christ that issues concerning me do not become a distraction to their worship of their Lord,” Fatoyinbo said.
The preacher said the step would enable him to submit to the concerns of his spiritual mentors as they consider all the issues that have been raised against him.
