The embattled senior pastor of the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA), Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo, has said he is stepping down from the pulpit after a growing protest over Busola Dakolo’s rape allegation.

Pastor Fatoyinbo said he decided to step aside from his pastoral assignment after seeking counsel from his mentors.

Disclosing this in a statement released on his Instagram page Monday, Pastor Fatoyinbo said, “I have taken time to pray and seek spiritual counsel from Christian leaders around the world who feel very concerned about the ongoing reports in the media.”

“I have solicited their guidance on actions I should take that is honouring to our Lord Jesus Christ and the work he has called me to do.

“Drawing from their counsel and that of the leadership of Commonwealth of Zion Assembly and owing to my love for God’s work and the sacred honour of my calling, I have decided to take a leave of absence from the pulpit of the church.

“This step enables me to submit to the concerns of my spiritual mentors as they consider all the issues that have been raised against me.

“Though I do not understand all that is happening, I trust the Lord to lead and guide me one step at a time.”

May justice prevail. May the church of Christ also prevail! Jesus is Lord!!!