The Founder of The Word Assembly Churches, Isaac Omolehin, has declared that Christianity in Nigeria lacks a unifying paternal figure, arguing that leading pastors function mainly as heads of denominations rather than fathers of the entire Christian body.

Omolehin made the remarks during a sermon published on the church’s official YouTube channel on Wednesday.

The clip gained widespread attention on social media by Saturday, sparking debate among Christians.

In the sermon, the cleric said calls for “fathers of the faith” to speak on national or religious issues were misplaced, insisting that no single leader currently occupies that role across all Christian denominations in Nigeria.

“I would hear fathers and I ask myself, which father? Nigerian Christianity has no father,” he said, adding that prominent figures often cited as spiritual fathers are limited in influence to their respective churches.

He specifically referenced Enoch Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, acknowledging his stature but maintaining that his leadership does not extend beyond his denomination.

Omolehin also mentioned other prominent clerics, including William Kumuyi of Deeper Life Bible Church and Daniel Olukoya of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries, noting that each remains focused on their individual ministries.

According to him, a true father of Christianity in Nigeria would transcend denominational boundaries and cater to all believers regardless of affiliation, including those in Roman Catholic, Methodist, Anglican, and Apostolic traditions.

“A father would be somebody who looks after us all, not just promoting denominational agenda,” he said, criticising what he described as unhealthy competition among churches, including the building of large auditoriums and acquisition of private jets.

Omolehin argued that such rivalry lacks “spiritual content” and contributes to the absence of a central voice capable of addressing issues affecting Christians nationwide.

He further stated that the lack of a unifying figure explains why no church leader has spoken authoritatively on broader concerns impacting Christians across denominations.

Plateauing his argument, the cleric emphasised that any leader deserving the title must shed denominational bias and embrace all Christians equally.

His comments come amid ongoing conversations about the role of religious leaders in addressing national issues and fostering unity within Nigeria’s diverse Christian community.