In a recent controversy shaking Nigeria’s religious community, Pastor Korede Komaiya of The Master’s Place International Church has reportedly demanded that Apostle Festus Alilu, who is currently detained, must produce and circulate a public apology video before securing his release.
This demand follows Apostle Alilu’s arrest on Thursday after he openly criticized Pastor Komaiya’s teachings.
Apostle Festus Alilu, the leader of Word of Power Gospel Church International in Ughelli, Delta State, allegedly posted a video on his official Facebook page condemning Pastor Komaiya’s prosperity gospel messages.
He accused Pastor Komaiya of promoting doctrines aimed at manipulating congregants by associating financial blessings with monetary offerings and tithes.
In his remarks, Apostle Alilu also referenced activist Omoyele Sowore’s consistent criticism of certain Nigerian pastors, suggesting that their approach fosters public distrust toward Christian leaders.
Efforts to resolve the dispute reportedly led to discussions between representatives of both pastors. According to sources familiar with the negotiations, Pastor Komaiya agreed to retract his complaint if Apostle Alilu agrees to publicly apologize via a video broadcast online and later address the apology in his church sermon.
A source at the meeting disclosed to Okay.ng, “They have apologized to Pastor Korede, and he accepts to withdraw the matter. We just left a meeting with him now. The apostle is not yet released. They said he (Alilu) will have to make a video and apologize and publicize it online. Then he will preach on the apology in his church.”