The Celestial Church of Christ Worldwide has officially responded to the death of Nollywood actress Temitope Osoba, who passed away on August 5, 2026, at age 40, amid public scrutiny of her fiancé, Prophet Itunu Onadeko. In a statement released on August 11, 2026, the church confirmed it is investigating the circumstances surrounding her death and pledged to cooperate with law enforcement.
Church Condemns Allegations, Vows to Investigate
The statement, signed by Head of Media and Publicity AVSE Kayode Ajala, expressed deep sadness over the loss of Osoba, describing her as a promising life cut short in its prime, while acknowledging the grief of her family and loved ones. However, the church made it clear it would not remain passive while its name was being drawn into controversy.
"We are not folding our arms and watching from the kerb, as the name and image of our church is dragged and battered by the alleged involvement of Prophet Itunu Onadeko in the untimely death of Temitope Osoba," the statement read. The church asserted that its doctrine leaves no room for idolatry, black magic, cultism, or the use of charms, describing the allegations as "quite embarrassing" to the institution.
According to the statement, internal investigations are already underway, with the church pledging to work alongside the police and relevant law enforcement agencies to uncover the full truth behind Osoba's death.
Church Threatens Sanction if Onadeko is Found Guilty
The church also issued a stern warning regarding the consequences Prophet Onadeko, Osoba's fiancé, could face depending on how investigations unfold. "If the allegations against Prophet Itunu Onadeko of the Celestial Church of Christ are found to be true at the end of ongoing investigations, he would not only be made to face the internal sanctions of the church, but he would also be made to face the full length of the law," the statement declared.
The church's Spiritual Head, His Eminence Reverend Emmanuel Mobiyina Oshoffa, was cited as personally assuring both Osoba's family and the general public that the church's internal machinery is working to ensure justice is served. The statement concluded with a prayer for the late actress: "May the soul of Temitope Osoba rest in perfect peace. Amen."
Ronke Oshodi Oke Slams Pastor Fiancé
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that veteran Nollywood actress Ronke Oshodi Oke criticised Prophet Itunu Onadeko for his controversial remarks after Osoba's death. She accused him of hypocrisy, pointing out that he tolerated Osoba's smoking habit while donations worth millions of naira were flowing in, but distanced himself once the money was gone. Ronke Oshodi Oke further questioned the morality of a pastor cohabiting with a woman for years without marrying her.
The church's investigation is ongoing, and the outcome will determine whether Onadeko faces internal sanctions and legal action. The case has drawn significant public attention, with many awaiting the findings of the police and church authorities.
