Pastor Abel Damina has made headlines with his recent statements regarding Pastor David Ibiyeomie’s religious history.
During a recent interview on Podcast show by Nedu, Pastor Damina claimed that when he began his ministry, Pastor Ibiyeomie had not yet become a born-again Christian and was still a member of a “Cele” church, a colloquial term often used to describe the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC).
This statement has stirred controversy, particularly because Pastor Ibiyeomie, who is based in Port Harcourt, has previously been associated with the Cherubim and Seraphim Church (C&S), another prominent white garment church, not the Celestial Church of Christ.
Pastor Ibiyeomie had, in fact, come under fire months earlier for labeling the Celestial Church as “fetish,” sparking a wave of backlash from the church’s members and supporters.
Pastor Damina’s remarks, which seem to mistakenly place Ibiyeomie within the Celestial Church rather than the Cherubim and Seraphim Church, have only added fuel to the ongoing debate.
Some see this as a case of mistaken identity, while others view it as an intentional slight against the Celestial Church.
Supporters of both the Celestial Church of Christ and the Cherubim and Seraphim Church have expressed their displeasure with the way both churches have been portrayed.
They emphasize that both denominations are Christian organizations where Christ is revered, and their members are deeply rooted in scripture and committed to their faith journey.
The fallout from Pastor Damina’s comments has added to a series of controversies surrounding Pastor Ibiyeomie.
Many observers believe that this latest incident may further strain relationships within the Christian community, as both pastors are influential figures with significant followings.