- Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo, founder of Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC), is at the center of a church controversy.
- He officiated the wedding of Pastor Chris Okafor and his wife, Pearl, amidst ongoing allegations.
- Actress Doris Ogala accused Pastor Okafor of deception, claiming they were in a relationship since 2017.
Founder of Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC), Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo, has become a focal point of an ongoing church-related controversy following his decision to officiate the wedding of Pastor Chris Okafor and his wife, Pearl.
The marriage ceremony, which took place amid unresolved allegations, has continued to spark debate after actress Doris Ogala publicly accused Pastor Okafor of deception. Ogala alleged that she had been in a relationship with the cleric since 2017 and was led to believe marriage was imminent, only to be shocked when news of his wedding emerged online.
Despite her claims and threats to reveal more details about their alleged relationship, the wedding went ahead as planned, with Pastor Ashimolowo presiding over the ceremony.
The situation has since drawn criticism from another Christian leader, Dr Charles Apoki, who openly expressed his disappointment with Pastor Ashimolowo’s involvement. In a video shared on his Facebook page, Apoki questioned the ethical judgment behind officiating the wedding while serious allegations remained unresolved.
“I am ashamed of you. Any society that has no rules will collapse,” Apoki stated.
He stressed that religious leaders must be cautious about the messages their actions send to believers, particularly when issues of morality and integrity are involved.
Dr Apoki further accused Pastor Okafor of improper behavior, alleging that he abandoned his wife and children while engaging in an immoral relationship with actress Doris Ogala. He also pointed to viral videos on social media in which Okafor allegedly performed staged miracles, arguing that such acts undermine the credibility of Christianity.
According to Apoki, openly associating with individuals facing serious allegations can be interpreted as endorsement of their actions and may erode the church’s moral authority.
To emphasize his stance, he referenced biblical figures such as Achan, Ananias, and Sapphira, who faced consequences for moral wrongdoing, highlighting accountability as a fundamental Christian principle. He also drew comparisons with traditional African values, noting that communities historically distanced themselves from those accused of misconduct.
“You don’t greet him. You don’t collect fire from his kitchen. You don’t trade with him. Because when you do that, you seem to approve of his conduct,” he said.
As of now, neither Pastor Ashimolowo nor Pastor Okafor has responded publicly to Dr Apoki’s remarks, as public interest continues to grow over the unfolding controversy.
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