By Ighomuaye Lucky. O
The leadership of Christ Chosen Church of God International has addressed the retirement of its former Director of Administration, Apostle Pius Igberase, following widespread discussions and allegations circulating on social media.
In a statement issued on Friday in Benin City, the church said the retirement resulted from an internal disciplinary process carried out in line with its established procedures.
The statement, jointly signed by the Secretary General, Apostle Jones Ikibeh, and the Public Relations Officer, Apostle Newton Egharevba, stated that the issues leading to the disciplinary action emerged after the Spiritual Leader returned from a three-month working visit on May 18, 2026.
According to the church, Apostle Igberase was found to have exceeded his authority by performing responsibilities reserved for the Spiritual Leader.
It also alleged that he made remarks capable of inciting members against the church leadership, wore an unauthorised cassock during the 2026 Baptism Service, and engaged in conduct the church described as inappropriate during the Women’s Convention.
It further alleged that he promoted tribal sentiments within the church and failed to demonstrate the standard of household leadership expected of senior ministers under its doctrines and regulations.
On 10th June, he was queried, and on 12th June, a 21-member Special Disciplinary Panel chaired by Apostle E. Akugue sat on the matter.
The panel found the explanations unsatisfactory and recommended dismissal.
However, the Church says the Spiritual Leader, in his discretion, approved retirement instead, with full severance benefits a move described as an act of restraint.
The Church also debunked claims circulating online that panel members were paid N1 million each to influence the outcome.
It described the videos and documents in circulation as edited and misleading.
The Church further raised concerns over threats by some supporters to lock church branches and cause unrest, saying it will invoke the law to protect its properties.
Christ Chosen Church is urging members and the public to rely only on official church channels and to avoid sharing unverified information capable of causing division.
The statement reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to due process, unity, and its mission of spreading the Gospel.
