Tensions erupted on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at All Saints’ Church, Anointed Land, in Ado-Ekiti, as members of the Anglican Diocese of Ekiti staged a protest by refusing to participate in the usual worship service. The protest was directed against their priest, Venerable Oke Olanrewaju, whom they accused of misconduct and authoritarian leadership.
The disgruntled congregants gathered on the church premises but declined to commence the service, demanding that the Bishop of the Diocese, the Right Reverend Andrew Olusola Ajayi, remove the vicar from his position.
Allegations Against the Priest
The protesting members accused Venerable Olanrewaju of mismanaging church resources, displaying ungodly behavior, and exercising high-handedness and recklessness. They argued that he had failed to contribute positively to the church, both physically and spiritually, and insisted on his transfer to restore peace.
According to the aggrieved members, they had long tolerated the priest’s alleged excesses, but tensions reached a breaking point when he reportedly attempted to forcefully remove the church treasurer.
In another shocking allegation, the members claimed that the priest once brought a large, intimidating female dog into the church, which ended up defecating in the sacred baptismal font, desecrating it.
Formal Petition for Removal
The Secretary of the Parish Council Committee (PCC), Mr. Adeboyega Falowo, confirmed that a formal request for the priest’s transfer had been submitted to Bishop Ajayi. He also revealed that a petition supporting their demand had been signed by numerous church members.
As tensions continue to mount, the congregation awaits a response from the Diocese regarding the fate of Venerable Olanrewaju.
