By Peter Omopo
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has urged Nigerians to intensify prayers for the country and its leaders, particularly President Bola Tinubu, as the Cherubim and Seraphim (C&S) Church marked its 100th anniversary in Ogun State.
Speaking on Tuesday at the centenary thanksgiving held at Seraphim Land, Maba, the monarch described the milestone as evidence of a solid spiritual foundation. He called on the faithful to intercede for national progress and good governance.
“This celebration is an indication of a true foundation,” Ooni said. “I want you to put all our leaders into prayers with this centenary celebration, particularly President Bola Tinubu. Let us remember him in our prayers so that he can lead us right.”
Founded on September 9, 1925, by St. Moses Orimolade, the C&S Church is regarded as Nigeria’s first indigenous church. Over the decades, it has expanded across West Africa, Europe, and North America, known for its white garments, prophetic worship, and emphasis on prayer and fasting.
The Supreme Head of the church, Solomon Alao, described the centenary as a spiritual landmark, predicting that its impact would be felt across Nigeria. “The radiance of today’s celebration will be seen across the country, and you will begin to see changes from this month,” he said.
Other leaders echoed similar calls. The chairperson of the centenary steering committee, Esther Ajayi, emphasized love as the core of Christianity, while Elder George Tunolase, speaking at the founder’s family house in Ikare-Akoko, Ondo State, urged greater unity among members worldwide.
As part of the week-long events, the church held a centenary awards dinner in Lagos on Sunday, honouring 100 distinguished members. Plans were also announced to transform Orimolade’s family house and burial site into a religious tourism centre.
Representatives of traditional rulers, including the Owa Ale of Ikare-Akoko, Oba Adefemi Adedoyin, also encouraged the church to make a lasting developmental impact in the founder’s hometown.
The centenary celebrations continue with various spiritual, cultural, and community-focused programmes.
