The Celestial Church of Christ Worldwide has condemned the use of its founder’s image on political rally posters in Lagos and Ibadan, insisting that it has not endorsed any political party or candidate.
The church said the unauthorised use of its name, identity and the portrait of Saint Samuel Bilewu Joseph Oshoffa to promote opposing political interests was unacceptable.
According to a statement signed by AVSE Kayode Ajala JP, MPIC, Secretary of the Pastor in Council and Head of Media and Publicity, the church is concerned about advertisements for events branded as Celestial Mega Rally.
The posters reportedly feature political candidates from different parties alongside the image of the church’s revered founder.
The church warned that the materials could wrongly suggest that it supports the candidates or their political ambitions.
CCC Worldwide Rejects Political Use of Oshoffa’s Image
The church said Oshoffa’s image and legacy must be treated with reverence and must not be used as political campaign material.
It described the use of the same portrait to promote candidates from opposing parties as troubling, noting that it could create the impression that the institution is divided or aligned with competing political interests.
The church stressed that no individual or group has the authority to use its name, structures or revered symbols for political campaigns without approval from the appropriate leadership.
It added that the founder’s legacy belongs to the church’s spiritual heritage and should not be exploited for personal ambition or partisan interests.
Church Cites Constitution on Political Activities
The Celestial Church of Christ Worldwide also cited Section 98(b) of its constitution, which prohibits references to political matters and government policy during sermons from the church’s pulpits.
The provision states that references to political matters, government policy and other specified subjects are forbidden during sermons.
The church said the rule reinforces its responsibility to protect the spiritual purpose of its pulpits and prevent its platforms from becoming tools for partisan mobilisation.
However, it acknowledged that members retain their individual rights as citizens to participate in politics.
It maintained that their personal political choices must not be presented as the official position of the church.
CCC Worldwide Disowns Ibadan, Lagos Mega Rallies
The church categorically disowned the advertised Celestial Mega Rally scheduled for Sunday, October 25, 2026, in Ibadan, Oyo State.
It said it neither authorised nor endorsed the event. It also distanced itself from any unauthorised political rally in Lagos or elsewhere that uses its identity or the founder’s image to promote political interests.
The church directed organisers and promoters of the events to stop using its name, image and symbols in ways that suggest official approval or support.
It warned that anyone found violating its constitution, regulations or lawful directives could face disciplinary action under established church procedures.
The church also reserved the right to pursue legal remedies to protect its name, image, heritage and institutional integrity.
Church Warns Against Exploiting Its Spiritual Heritage
The church urged members and the general public not to interpret the rallies as representing its official position.
It emphasised that the same rule applies to every political party and candidate, without exception.
The statement concluded that the church’s mission goes beyond partisan politics and that neither its identity nor its founder’s image should be used to advance private or political interests.
The church said it would take appropriate steps to protect its constitution, spiritual calling and the legacy of Saint Samuel Bilewu Joseph Oshoffa.