There has been widespread outrage after the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly Church, COZA, shared a video bragging about the luxurious arrival of Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo in three Rolls Royces and one private jet. This extravagant display of wealth has drawn considerable backlash from the public, with many criticizing the ostentatious lifestyle of religious leaders.
Pastor Ashimolowo, the senior preacher at Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC) in London, was invited to COZA’s Global Leadership Summit 2024. His participation in the event was highly anticipated, but the manner of his arrival has overshadowed the summit itself.
A video posted on the church’s official X (formerly Twitter) page showcased the renowned pastor leaving his Lagos home in a Rolls Royce, boarding a private jet at the Murtala Muhammed Airport, and being received in Abuja by two more Rolls Royces, which escorted him to the upscale Transcorp Hilton Hotel.
“Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo’s INSANE VIP Arrival in 3 Rolls-Royces & a Private Jet! The COZA Global Leadership Summit is getting deeper and wider. Don’t miss tonight’s session. We are live!!!” it captioned the post.
The video and its contents have sparked controversy online, with many criticizing the flashy lifestyle of religious leaders. Critics questioned the ethics of such luxury, particularly in a country grappling with economic challenges and widespread poverty.
Some social media users expressed discontent, pointing out the stark contrast between the pastor’s lifestyle and the struggles faced by many church members. A social media user @Gracepikin001 wrote, “Is this a church or a show house? How does the RR and PJ announcement add to the faith of your members? I’m still trying to wrap my head around the reasons for the bragging here because that’s exactly what it is.”
Another user, @olixa305, added, “Watin concern me ..pastor dey use rolls-Royce’s and private jet while some members no fit afford bag of rice 😂. Tomorrow he go open Bible say vanity upon vanity equals vanity. Wahala Dey o.”
@TemidireSt90707 expressed, “Nothing concern them. These elites keep the poor and middle-class fighting each other while they keep on gathering their wealth.”
Watch the video below …
Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo's INSANE VIP Arrival in 3 Rolls-Royces & a Private Jet![/p>
The COZA Global Leadership Summit is getting deeper and wider. Don't miss tonight's session. We are live!!! pic.twitter.com/iMhhN4TuOH[/p>
— ⅭOZA Global (@cozaglobal) October 12, 2024