The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on Sunday, announced that
the rape allegation against Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo of Commonwealth of
Zion Assembly (COZA), is now being investigated by Christian elders.
In the statement released by the Christian group’s Acting General
Secretary, Joseph Daramola, CAN frowned at commentators insulting the ‘Body of Christ in Nigeria as a result of the incident’. Noting
that rape is ungodly and reprehensible, CAN stated that they
have resisted the temptation of jumping into any conclusion until the
truth is uncovered.
Read the statement below;
“Since both Pastor Fatoyinbo and Mrs. Timi Dakolo are Christians, the
leadership of CAN is already seeking ways to address the issues in
order to heal every wound already inflicted on the parties concerned and
the body of Christ in general.“It is our hope that steps which will exacerbate the current damages
already done will be avoided. The leadership of the Christian
Association of Nigeria (CAN) is seriously concerned about the disturbing
situation concerning Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo, the General Overseer of
Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA), one of our leading Pastors in the
country, on whom allegations of rape has been leveled by one of our
daughters, Mrs. Timi Dakolo.“It is disheartening how some commentators and columnists have been
insulting the Body of Christ in Nigeria as a result of this incident.
Like we have earlier stated, it doesn’t matter who is involved, rape is
ungodly and reprehensible. But we have resisted the temptation to jump
into any conclusion since a body like ours will be expected to have
uncovered the truth about any matter before making public statements and
not base its position merely upon media reports.“Although we have disclosed that Pastor Fatoyinbo’s Church has not
been an active member of CAN, that does not put the Church outside the
spiritual watch-care of CAN. CAN is the umbrella body for every
Christian and Church in Nigeria. Jesus Christ, the Head of the Church
does not turn back anyone that comes to Him and CAN also does not.The
Ministry of the Church, according to Jesus Christ, is the Ministry of
Reconciliation, which is centered on true love and forgiveness of those
who repent.“The Bible states it clearly that “God demonstrates his own love for
us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Roman’s
5:8,11). Having reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, God has
committed to us the ministry of reconciling the world unto Himself and
to one another. (2 Corinthians 5:19-21).”“As we seek the help of CAN Elders and the Holy Spirit in resolving
the current problem, it is our prayer that both parties will sheath
their swords and stop the media war in the interest of the Church and
for the greater glory of God.”