Religion

BREAKING: Nigerian Pastor Korede Komaiya Demands ‘Apology Video’ From Detained Colleague To Secure Release

Published by Tope Fakinlede on March 22nd, 2025.

BREAKING: Nigerian Pastor Korede Komaiya Demands ‘Apology Video’ From Detained Colleague To Secure Release

Reports have emerged that Pastor Korede Komaiya of The Master’s Place International Church is demanding an apology video from a fellow pastor, Apostle Festus Alilu, in exchange for his release. Alilu, the senior pastor of Word of Power Gospel Church International in Ughelli, Delta State, was arrested after making controversial comments about Komaiya.

According to SaharaReporters, the arrest occurred late Thursday following the release of a video on Alilu’s official Facebook page. In the video, Alilu accused Komaiya of misleading his congregation with false teachings related to prosperity and financial success, common themes of the prosperity gospel.

In an update provided by a source close to the situation on Friday evening, it was revealed that Pastor Komaiya had set a condition for Alilu’s release. Komaiya reportedly insisted that Alilu must record and publicly share an apology video online before any further action would be taken.

The source confirmed, “They’ve apologised to Pastor Korede, and he has agreed to withdraw the matter. We just left a meeting with him. The apostle has not been released yet, as they said Alilu must make the video, apologise, and share it online.”

Alilu’s comments had targeted Komaiya’s teachings, accusing him of exploiting church members’ faith by promoting financial breakthroughs through tithes and offerings, a practice central to prosperity preaching. The video also referenced the criticisms of Nigerian pastor practices by activist Omoyele Sowore, who has repeatedly denounced corruption and exploitation in the church, especially among prosperity preachers.

Alilu expressed concern that if such practices persisted, it could further divide and confuse the Christian community in Nigeria. While some people supported Alilu’s outspoken views, others criticized him for airing internal church conflicts publicly, arguing that such matters should be resolved privately.

A video from SaharaReporters shows the moment of Alilu’s arrest. Pastor Komaiya, a prominent figure in the rapidly expanding Master’s Place International Church, has built a reputation on preaching prosperity, urging followers that faith and consistent giving will lead to personal wealth and success.

Despite criticism, Komaiya remains a prominent figure within the prosperity gospel movement, which has gained considerable influence across Nigeria and much of Africa.