Senior cleric Pastor Kesiena Ediri has publicly criticised Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo, founder of Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC), over his association with the controversial wedding of Pastor Chris Okafor, a development that has reignited intense debate across social media and faith communities.

The backlash follows the recent wedding ceremony involving Pastor Chris Okafor, which took place amid unresolved allegations made by Nollywood actress Doris Ogala.

While the marriage itself has been widely reported, renewed attention has been drawn to the event after Pastor Kesiena Ediri questioned the timing and appropriateness of senior church leaders publicly celebrating such a ceremony while serious accusations linked to one of the parties remain unresolved.

In comments that quickly gained traction online, Ediri argued that religious leaders must be mindful of perception and moral responsibility, especially in situations where allegations (though unproven) have sparked widespread public concern. His remarks were widely interpreted as a direct critique of Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo’s presence at, or association with, the wedding.

Social media users have since weighed in, with opinions sharply divided. Some critics argue that Pastor Ashimolowo’s involvement sends the wrong message to the public and could be perceived as dismissive of unresolved claims. Others, however, have defended the senior pastor, insisting that attending or officiating a wedding does not equate to endorsing allegations or passing judgment in a personal dispute.

The controversy is closely tied to Doris Ogala’s earlier public claims, in which she alleged that Pastor Chris Okafor reneged on a promise of marriage. Her statements, shared via videos and posts online, triggered weeks of emotional reactions, debates about accountability, and calls for transparency within religious leadership circles. It is important to note that the allegations remain unproven, and no court ruling has been issued on the matter.

As reactions continue to unfold, the incident has sparked a broader conversation about leadership ethics, public trust, and the role of influential pastors in moments of controversy. Analysts say the situation reflects growing public expectations for accountability, especially in an era where religious figures are increasingly scrutinized beyond the pulpit.

As of the time of this report, Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo has not issued a public response addressing Pastor Kesiena Ediri’s criticism or the renewed backlash. Similarly, no fresh statement has been released by Pastor Chris Okafor regarding the controversy.

With discussions still trending online, the debate underscores the complex intersection of faith, leadership, and public perception—one that continues to dominate conversations both within and outside religious communities.