A significant revelation took place on the 1st of July 2024 during the ongoing hearing of the appeal filed by Rev Pastor EMF Oshoffa against the judgment of the Ilaro State High Court, which declared the seat of Pastor in Celestial Church of Christ vacant.
Tensions rose when the court called for representatives of the parties involved. The Registered Board of Trustees, including Most Superior Evangelist Banjo and Superior Evangelist Akintenirwa stood up to assert their status. In response, the Pastor’s counsel, who also held the position of secretary in the unregistered Board of Trustees challenged their authority, stating that neither the Church nor himself recognized them.
Evidence in the form of registration documents with the Corporate Affairs Commission was drawn to the attention of the judges. This evidence swayed the judges, leading them to express dissatisfaction with the Pastor’s counsel for failing to provide clear and sound legal advice to resolve the Church’s internal disputes outside of the courtroom; however, Pastor’s counsel stated that there is a suit at the Federal High Court preventing the CAC from recognizing the unregistered BOT.
The judges inquired whether the registered Board of Trustees (BOT) had been removed in accordance with the laws of the Corporate Affairs Commission and the Companies and Allied Matters Act. They sought clarification on whether the registered BOT members’ alleged removal had been sanctioned by the Corporate Affairs Commission. Additionally, the judges questioned whether the selection of the new BOT had followed due process in compliance with the constitution and law.
The judges emphasized the importance of upholding fairness and justice in all actions taken by the counsel. They admonished counsel against advising the registered BOT to take unlawful steps that could potentially abuse the justice system. Drawing from his personal experience as a daughter of a pastor, the presiding judge empathised with the challenges faced by churches during internal crises.
The judges urged counsel to prioritize integrity over financial gain, reminding them of the responsibility to speak truthfully to the church of God. They made it clear that they would not tolerate any attempts to delay the case and adjourned further proceedings to the 10th day of October 2024 , as the judges would soon begin their annual vacation.
In conclusion, the judges assured all parties that they would address their observations and ensure a fair and timely resolution to the matter at hand.
