On September 9, 2023, I engaged in another deep conversation with the Deborah Oshoffa. Our discussion revolved around the challenges hindering the reconciliation efforts between the registered Board of Trustees and the Pastor. Deborah, you eloquently shared your thoughts and observations on the obstacles preventing unity of the Church
I couldn’t help but recall your insightful suggestion during the peaceful reconciliation meeting on the 21th of January 2021, in Abekouta. It was a momentous occasion presided over by Former President Olusegun Obasanjo. You boldly stated that true peace would only be restored to Celestial Church of Christ if the Oshoffa family were to separate from the Church. Your words resonated for 30 minutes speech as you passionately explained the Church’s current predicament.
Following the enlightening conversation that spanned five hours, Former President Olusegun Obasanjo was so impressed that he personally requested your contact information. He even embraced you, acknowledging you as a true daughter of the Rev SBJ Oshoffa.
In January 2024, we had a private discussion where you opened up about the pressure you were feeling from various sources. You shared all the details of the situation and we agreed that you would continue on the path of righteousness and uphold your father’s legacy within the Church. I reminded you of your inspiring words spoken during the Pastor’s birthday celebration in December 2023, urging you to remain thoughtful as always.
On the 3rd of February 2024, I mentioned that we would meet the following week. Then, on February 10 2024, I visited your shop in Ketu with my respected uncle. Unfortunately, we were informed by your sister Rachel Oshoffa that you were battling malaria and receiving treatment from a doctor. Despite this setback, we went upstairs to check on you, only to be told by two women that you were resting. We left a message for you, unaware that it would be our last encounter.
The next update I received was that you had been taken to Benin Republic for advanced treatment. After two weeks, I learned that you had returned to Nigeria and were admitted to Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH). I was thrilled to hear that you were responding well to treatment and on the fast track to recovery.
An Elder of the Church visited you in the hospital on March 10, 2024 and you excitedly shared that you would be discharged the next day. Then, another Elder spoke with you on March 13, 2024 and you joyfully expressed that God was in control of everything. However, my heart sank when I received a call around 12:15pm, informing me that you had passed away. I couldn’t believe it! I immediately reached out to your siblings and fellow Elders in the Church, only to confirm the devastating news that Prophetess Arewa Deborah Oshoffa had unexpectedly left us.
Deborah, your dedication to reconciling the Elders in the Church and always speaking the truth to those in authority will never be forgotten. Your unwavering commitment to upholding God’s principles and your pivotal role in restructuring the Church will be remembered for generations to come. Your journey with your father, Rev SBJ Oshoffa to Ibadan on the 1st of September 1985 still resonates in our previous conversations. And now, on March 14, 2024, you have embarked on your final journey to join the saints in heaven.
As you reunite with your father in heaven, please convey to him the current state of the Church and how some individuals have strayed from God’s teachings. Your legacy will live on, guiding those who are led to join the Church in the future. Rest in peace, dear Deborah, your spirit will forever inspire us.
Attached comment you posted on your Facebook page last year on my birthday…..
