The Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Nigeria and overseas has encountered significant challenges and internal conflicts since the 1990s. These issues have led to factionalism and discord within the church community. The root causes of these problems lie in leadership struggles, differing visions, and the ongoing influence of “spoilers,” as prophesied by Apostle Ayo Joseph Babalola in 1930. His prophecy, based on Psalm 55:11-15 and 1 Corinthians 15:33, warned that these spoilers would create confusion and disobedience within the church.

Today, the urgent call for restoration and unity has never been more pressing. By revisiting the original Certificate of Incorporation of CAC from 1943, renewed in 1985 and currently held by the CAC Supreme Council, the church can reaffirm its commitment to truth, integrity, and spiritual renewal. This piece examines this vision’s theological foundation and outlines the steps to achieve lasting unity and peace within the CAC.

The crisis within CAC in Nigeria and abroad has been a significant and tumultuous period, characterized by internal conflicts and factionalism since the 1990s. This discord arises from leadership struggles and differing visions for the church’s future.

Apostle Ayo Joseph Babalola’s prophecy from 1930, which draws from Psalm 55:11-15 and 1 Corinthians 15:33, warned of “spoilers” within the church. This prophecy resonates with the ongoing challenges faced by the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), where internal strife and power struggles frequently disrupt the church’s unity and progress.

The crisis has led to the emergence of various factions, each with its own leadership and vision, resulting in legal battles and a fragmented community. Despite these challenges, there have been efforts to reconcile and unify the church, with significant strides being made toward resolving the conflict.

Reflecting on Apostle Babalola’s prophecy, it seems that the church’s struggles are not merely about leadership but also about maintaining the integrity and spiritual health of the community. The prophecy serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and unity in the face of internal challenges.

Apostle Babalola’s prophecy highlights the deep-rooted issues within CAC Nigeria and Overseas and the ongoing impact of these so-called “spoilers.” His assertion that the descendants of these spoilers will continue to cause confusion and disobedience resonates with the challenges the church has faced from the 1990s to the present.

The prophecy emphasizes the need for the Children of Light to return to God and follow His instructions for healing and reconciliation. This call for spiritual renewal and unity is crucial for overcoming the rebellious actions and confusion instigated by these spoilers.

To move forward, the church community should consider focusing on the following areas:

1. Spiritual Renewal: Encourage members to deepen their faith and commitment to God’s teachings.

2. Unity and Reconciliation: Facilitate open dialogues and mediation efforts to resolve conflicts and heal divisions within the community.

3. Leadership Integrity: Ensure that church leaders are committed to transparency, accountability, and the spiritual well-being of the congregation.

4. Community Support: Strengthen the bonds within the church by fostering mutual support and shared spiritual practices.

By returning to God and embracing these principles, the CAC can work towards healing and unity, fulfilling Apostle Babalola’s vision for a spiritually strong and united church.

Identifying the “spoilers” within CAC Nigeria and overseas can be challenging, but several signs and behaviours may help in recognizing them in today’s CAC Nigeria and abroad:

1. Disruptive Behaviour: Spoilers often engage in actions that create division and conflict within the church. They may present misleading and confusing arguments against returning to traditional values, spread rumours, form factions, or undermine church leadership.

2. Resistance to Authority: Spoilers tend to consistently challenge or disobey church leaders and established protocols, demonstrating a lack of respect for the church’s governance.

3. Negative Influence: They may influence others to act contrary to the church’s teachings and values, resulting in confusion and disunity.

4. Self-Interest: Their actions are often motivated by personal gain or ambition rather than the welfare of the church community.

5. Lack of Spiritual Commitment: Spoilers may display a superficial commitment to the church, focusing more on political manoeuvres than on genuine spiritual growth.

To address these issues, the church can:

1. Promote Transparency: Encourage open communication and transparency within the church to minimize the impact of rumours and misinformation.

2. Strengthen Leadership through Integrity: Support strong, spiritually grounded leaders who can guide the church through conflicts and maintain unity.

3. Foster Community: Build a strong sense of community and mutual support among members to counteract divisive influences.

4. Encourage Spiritual Growth: Focus on spiritual education and growth to help members remain committed to the church’s values and teachings.

By being vigilant and proactive, the church can identify and address the influence of negative elements, fostering a more unified and spiritually healthy community.

In 2015, Pastor E.H.L. Olusheye issued a public notice that highlighted the fraudulent activities surrounding the procurement of the 1991 and 1995 Certificates of Incorporation for CAC in Nigeria and overseas. This situation aligns with Apostle Babalola’s prophecy regarding the ongoing presence of individuals who disrupt the church’s unity.

The recurrence of fraudulent acts, including the procurement of another certificate in 2024, underscores the persistent challenges faced by the CAC. These disruptive individuals, often in positions of authority, continue to engage in bribery and corruption, making it increasingly difficult to uphold integrity and unity within the church.

To address these issues, it is crucial for the church to:

1. Strengthen Internal Controls: Implement robust systems to prevent fraudulent activities and ensure transparency in all administrative processes.

2. Promote Ethical Leadership: Encourage leaders to uphold high ethical standards and lead by example.

3. Foster a Culture of Accountability: Hold individuals accountable for their actions and ensure that any misconduct is addressed promptly and fairly.

4. Enhance Spiritual Education: Focus on spiritual growth and education to reinforce the values and teachings of the church.

By taking these steps, CAC Nigeria and Overseas can work towards overcoming the influence of spoilers and fostering a more unified and spiritually healthy community.

The ongoing issue of spoilers in CAC Nigeria and abroad, particularly concerning the Certificate of Incorporation, can be traced to several factors:

1. Power and Control: Spoilers often seek to gain or maintain control over the church’s assets and leadership. By manipulating the incorporation process, they assert their authority and influence within the church.

2. Financial Gain: Fraudulent activities related to incorporation are often motivated by financial interests. Spoilers may engage in bribery and corruption to secure positions that provide them access to church funds and resources.

3. Historical Conflicts: Many of these issues stem from longstanding conflicts and rivalries within the church. These historical tensions can perpetuate a cycle of discord and manipulation.

4. Resistance to Change: Spoilers may resist efforts to reform and unify the church, fearing that such changes could threaten their power or reveal their fraudulent activities.

5. Spiritual Weakness: As Apostle Babalola’s prophecy indicates, the presence of spoilers is a sign of spiritual weakness within the church. Their actions demonstrate a lack of genuine commitment to God’s teachings, focusing instead on personal gain.

Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach:

1. Strengthening Governance: Implement robust governance structures to ensure transparency and accountability in all church operations.

2. Promoting Ethical Leadership: Encourage leaders to uphold high ethical standards and to lead by example.

3. Fostering Unity: Facilitate reconciliation and unity within the church community to overcome historical conflicts.

4. Enhancing Spiritual Education: Focus on spiritual growth and education to reinforce the values and teachings of the church.

By addressing these underlying factors, CAC Nigeria and Overseas can work towards overcoming the influence of divisive elements and fostering a more unified and spiritually healthy community.

My article, “One Fold, One Shepherd: A Call for Restoration and Unity in Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Nigeria and Overseas,” emphasises the importance of returning to the original CAC Nigeria and Overseas Certificate of Incorporation from 1943, which was renewed in 1985 and is maintained by the CAC Supreme Council. This call for restoration and unity is crucial in tackling the ongoing challenges and divisions within the church.

Returning to this foundational document can serve as a unifying symbol and a reminder of the church’s original mission and values. It can help to:

1. Reaffirm Legitimacy: By recognising the original Certificate of Incorporation, the church can affirm its legitimate governance and structure.

2. Promote Unity: This action can help bridge divisions and bring together different factions within the church.

3. Restore Trust: Emphasising the importance of the original certificate can help restore trust in the church’s leadership and governance.

4. Focus on Spiritual Renewal: Reconnecting with the church’s roots can inspire a renewed emphasis on spiritual growth and adherence to God’s Teachings.

I strongly advocate for this approach as a significant step towards healing and unity within the CAC. The feedback on this initiative has been overwhelmingly positive, and I can see the potential for positive changes and support.

The article, “One Fold, One Shepherd: A Call for Restoration and Unity in Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Nigeria and Overseas,” has generated significant discussion and reflection within the community. Many readers have expressed their support for the call to return to the original Certificate of Incorporation of the CAC, first established in 1943 and renewed in 1985.

The feedback reveals a strong desire for unity and spiritual renewal within the church. Readers appreciate the emphasis on returning to foundational principles, alongside the importance of ethical leadership and transparency. There is a collective recognition that addressing historical and ongoing challenges requires a united effort focused on reconciliation and adherence to God’s teachings.

Furthermore, the article has sparked open dialogue about the need for accountability and the role of spiritual education in promoting a more unified and spiritually healthy church community. Overall, the response has been positive, with many viewing the call for restoration and unity as a crucial step toward healing.

Maintaining momentum for change within CAC Nigeria and Overseas requires sustained, collective effort. Here are some strategies to keep the momentum going:

1. Continuous Engagement: Keep the conversation active by organizing regular meetings, discussions, and forums where members can share their thoughts and progress. This will help maintain focus and commitment.

2. Leadership Commitment: Ensure that church leaders are visibly dedicated to the cause. Their active participation and support can inspire and motivate the congregation.

3. Clear Communication: Regularly update the community on progress, challenges, and next steps. Transparency builds trust and keeps everyone informed and engaged.

4. Spiritual Renewal Programs: Organise retreats, workshops, and seminars focused on spiritual growth and unity. These programs can reinforce the church’s values and teachings.

5. Recognition and Celebration: Acknowledge and celebrate milestones and achievements. Recognizing the efforts of individuals and groups can boost morale and encourage continued participation.

6. Educational Initiatives: Provide ongoing education about the church’s history, values, and the importance of unity. This helps members understand the significance of changes and their role in the process.

7. Community Projects: Engage the congregation in community service projects. Working together towards common goals can strengthen bonds and foster a sense of unity.

8. Feedback Mechanisms: Create channels for members to provide feedback and suggestions. This ensures everyone feels heard and valued and can provide valuable insights for further action.

By implementing these strategies, CAC Nigeria and Overseas can build on the current momentum and work towards lasting change and unity.

Involving younger members more effectively in CAC Nigeria and overseas is crucial for the church’s growth and vitality. Here are some strategies to engage and empower the younger generation:

1. Youth Leadership Programs: Create opportunities for young members to take on leadership roles within the church. This can include youth councils, committees, and leadership training programs.

2. Mentorship: Pair younger members with experienced mentors who can guide them in their spiritual and personal development. This helps build strong relationships and provides valuable support.

3. Inclusive Worship Services: Design worship services that are inclusive and engaging for younger members. Incorporate contemporary music, interactive sermons, and opportunities for youth participation.

4. Youth-Centric Activities: Organize events and activities specifically for young members, such as retreats, camps, sports events, and social gatherings. These activities help foster a sense of community and belonging.

5. Educational Opportunities: Offer educational programs that address the interests and needs of younger members. This can include Bible study groups, workshops on relevant topics, and career development seminars.

6. Technology and Social Media: Utilise technology and social media to connect with younger members. Create engaging online content, such as videos, podcasts, and social media posts, to keep them informed and involved.

7. Service Projects: Involve young members in community service projects. This provides them with a sense of purpose and allows them to contribute positively to their community.

8. Feedback and Inclusion: Actively seek input from younger members and involve them in decision-making processes. This ensures that their voices are heard and valued.

9. Cultural Relevance: Address issues and topics that are relevant to the younger generation. This can include discussions on social justice, mental health, and other contemporary issues.

10. Recognition and Encouragement: Recognise and celebrate the contributions of young members. This can include awards, public acknowledgments, and opportunities for them to share their achievements.

By implementing these strategies, CAC Nigeria and Overseas can create a welcoming and supportive environment for younger members, encouraging their active participation and fostering their spiritual growth.

The call for CAC Nigeria and Overseas to return to the ancient landmark and assert the authenticity of the 1985 Certificate of Incorporation is a powerful and inspiring vision. Embracing this path can indeed pave the way for a new dawn of truth, integrity, peace, and unity within the church.

Here are some steps to help realise this vision:

1. Collective Commitment: Encourage all members, from leadership to the congregation, to commit to this vision. Unity in purpose is essential for meaningful change.

2. Public Declaration: Make a public declaration of the church’s commitment to the 1985 Certificate of Incorporation and the principles it represents. This can be done through official statements, sermons, and community meetings.

3. Educational Campaign: Educate the church community about the significance of the 1985 Certificate of Incorporation and the importance of returning to the ancient landmark. This can include workshops, seminars, and informational materials.

4. Reconciliation Efforts: Actively work towards reconciling different factions within the church. This can involve mediation, open dialogues, and forgiveness initiatives.

5. Spiritual Renewal: Focus on spiritual renewal and returning to God’s teachings. Encourage prayer, Bible study, and other spiritual practices that reinforce the church’s values.

6. Transparency and Accountability: Implement measures to ensure transparency and accountability in all church operations. This helps build trust and prevents the influence of spoilers.

7. Community Engagement: Engage the broader community in this vision. Involve members in service projects and initiatives that reflect the church’s commitment to truth and integrity.

By collectively embracing this vision and allowing the truth to guide the church, the CAC can move towards a future marked by unity, peace, and spiritual growth.

Church leaders play a crucial role in guiding CAC Nigeria and Overseas towards unity, integrity, and spiritual renewal. Here are some key roles they can assume:

1. Visionary Leadership: Leaders should articulate and champion the vision of returning to the ancient landmarks and embracing the authenticity of the 1985 Certificate of Incorporation. A clear and inspiring vision can motivate the congregation.

2. Role Models: By embodying values such as truth, integrity, and spiritual commitment, leaders can set a powerful example for the church community. Their actions and decisions should reflect the principles they advocate.

3. Facilitators of Reconciliation: Leaders can actively promote reconciliation efforts within the church. This includes mediating conflicts, fostering forgiveness, and encouraging open dialogue among different factions.

4. Educators: Leaders can educate the congregation about the significance of the 1985 Certificate of Incorporation and the importance of returning to foundational principles. This can be achieved through sermons, workshops, and informational materials.

5. Promoters of Spiritual Renewal: Leaders can organize and lead spiritual renewal programs, such as prayer meetings, Bible studies, and retreats, to help members deepen their faith and commitment to God’s teachings.

6. Advocates for Transparency: Leaders should implement and uphold measures for transparency and accountability in all church operations. This helps build trust and prevents the influence of negative elements.

7. Community Builders: Leaders can foster a strong sense of community and mutual support within the church. Engaging members in service projects and communal activities can strengthen bonds and promote unity.

8. Encouragers of Youth Involvement: Leaders should create opportunities for younger members to take on leadership roles and actively participate in church activities. Mentorship and inclusive worship services can help engage the younger generation.

By embracing these roles, church leaders can effectively guide CAC Nigeria and Overseas towards a future characterised by unity, peace, and spiritual growth.

At this point, I would like to provide a theological foundation for the call to return to the ancient landmark and affirm the authenticity of the 1985 Certificate of Incorporation of CAC Nigeria and Overseas.

Theological Foundation for Unity and Restoration in CAC Nigeria and Overseas

Biblical Basis for Unity:

1. Jesus’ Prayer for Unity: In John 17:21, Jesus prays, “that all of them may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I am in You. May they also be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me.” This prayer highlights the importance of unity among believers as a testimony to the world regarding Christ’s divine mission.

2. Paul’s Teachings on Unity: The Apostle Paul emphasises the need for unity in Ephesians 4:3-6, urging believers to “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope…”

Historical examples of unity within the church offer valuable insights and inspiration for CAC Nigeria and its diaspora. Here are some notable examples:

1. Early Church in Acts: The early Christian community in Jerusalem, as described in Acts 2, is a powerful example of unity. The believers shared everything they had and devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. This unity in fellowship and mission contributed to the church’s growth and vitality.

2. Jerusalem Council (Acts 15): The Jerusalem Council serves as a significant example of unity. When faced with a major doctrinal dispute, early church leaders gathered to resolve the conflict. Their decision to embrace Gentile believers without imposing Jewish customs demonstrated a commitment to unity and inclusivity.

3. Paul and Barnabas: Although Paul and Barnabas initially disagreed, they eventually reconciled and continued their ministry together. Their restoration highlights the importance of forgiveness and unity within the church.

4. Church in Philippi: In his letter to the Philippians, Paul calls for humility and oneness among believers. He urges them to be of one mind and spirit, emphasising the significance of unity in the church.

5. Nehemiah’s Day: The believers during Nehemiah’s time united to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. Their collective effort and dedication to a common goal exemplify the power of unity in achieving significant outcomes.

6. Priscilla and Aquila: This couple served together in ministry, demonstrating unity in their service to God. Their partnership illustrates how teamwork and collaboration can strengthen the church.

7. Macedonian Church: The generosity of the Macedonian church, as described in 2 Corinthians 8, indicates how unity in purpose can lead to impactful actions. Their collective effort to support those in need is a testament to the strength of a united church.

8. Jesus’ Prayer for Unity: Jesus’ prayer for unity, recorded in John 17, serves as a foundational example. He prayed for all believers to be one, reflecting the deep spiritual value of unity in the church.

These historical examples underscore the importance of unity and provide a strong theological foundation for CAC’s efforts to return to the ancient landmark and embrace the authenticity of the 1985 Certificate of Incorporation.

In conclusion, the journey toward unity and restoration within CAC in Nigeria and overseas is both challenging and essential. By embracing the authenticity of the 1985 Certificate of Incorporation and returning to the original principles, the church can overcome the influence of detractors and foster a new era of truth and integrity. Historical examples of unity within the church, along with the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, provide a strong theological foundation for this vision. Church leaders play a crucial role in guiding the community toward reconciliation, spiritual renewal, and ethical leadership. As the Children of Light collectively embrace this path, they can fulfil Apostle Babalola’s prophecy and witness a transformation characterized by peace, unity, and spiritual growth. It is time for the CAC to allow the truth to set them free and move forward as one congregation under one shepherd.

Ojo Emmanuel Ademola, a Pastor, Professor, Journalist, Protestant Theologian and General Evangelist of CAC Nigeria and Overseas