The 2024 Convocation was saved from physical confrontation by the timely intervention of His Majesty Benjamin Oyeditan Olanite, the Oba of Imeko. As God received the glory for the successful outcome, it is important to express our gratitude to the monarch for his efforts in mediating a peace deal between Brother Demola, the Convener of Greater Tomorrow, and other key figures such as A/M/S/E Adjovi (CCC Taskforce Chairman) and A/V/S/E Benjamin Oshoffa.
Prior to the meeting chaired by the Oba of Imeko, tensions were high as the Greater Tomorrow Group had decided to proceed with their program despite potential conflicts. The meeting was held on the 23rd December 2024 at the Oba palace, the purpose of the meeting was to address and resolve the dispute arising from the planned Christmas Eve service of the Greater Tomorrow Group.
The Taskforce Chairman had previously announced a ban on separate services apart from the general basilica service which will be conducted by Pastor Rev EMF Oshoffa. This decision was seen as a violation of the freedom of worship by the Greater Tomorrow Group, who argued that they had the fundamental right to hold their own service, especially considering the land they had acquired for this purpose.
It has been reported that Brother Demola has further justified his claim that he did not purchase the lands from the Church authority. He has provided approval documents from Ogun State Government, asserting his right to worship on his land without any need for restitution. Additionally, it has been noted that he referenced the purchase of land by Late Rev Pastor Owodunni in Imeko, where he conducted a Christmas Eve Service without any reprimand.
Brother Demola pointed out that the seating arrangements at Mercyland are not well managed, with female members often sitting on the male side. He also mentioned the inappropriate sale of items during the yearly convocation, without any corrective action taken by the Church authority, only consecration being shown to him.
A/M/S/E Adjovi stated that the Taskforce’s reaction was to maintain decorum amidst rumour of potential law and order breakdown during the convention. He said the Taskforce is working to uphold a peaceful atmosphere, as Imeko stands as the Jerusalem for the Church.
It was mentioned that the monarch appealed to both parties to prioritize the town’s best interests in all their actions, as Imeko’s main concern is to foster a peaceful environment for all residents. The king also urged Brother Demola to take into account the benefits he has brought to the town. The king requested that Greater Tomorrow postpone their planned Christmas Eve Service in order to facilitate peaceful negotiations.
Subsequently, it was reported that Greater Tomorrow promptly retracted the petition they had submitted to the Ogun State Police Command, and the Group adhered to the agreement reached at the palace by suspending the service. It has been confirmed that Greater Tomorrow does not hold a Christmas Eve service. Instead, they held their Christmas service on December 25th, 2024, at their location.
May God of celestial continue to be with all of us more annoiting sirs