NSCEA Secretary, Prof. Adesanya-Davies, Warns Against Pastor Damina’s ‘Heretical Teachings’

Professor Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies, a linguist, communication scholar, and secretary of the Elders’ Council of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical Affairs (NSCEA), has publicly condemned what she describes as “heretical and fallacious” teachings by Pastor Abel Damina, founder of Power City International Ministry.

In an exclusive interview, the respected academic, who also contested Nigeria’s 2019 presidential election under the Mass Action Joint Alliance, reflected on her career in academia, religious leadership, and the growing theological controversy surrounding Pastor Damina’s teachings.

A Career Rooted in Academia and Faith

Adesanya-Davies, whose teaching career spans four decades, shared insights into her life as a scholar. “Teaching has been a highlight of my career,” she said. “I’ve supervised countless students, many of whom are now accomplished professionals. It’s been deeply fulfilling.”

Her academic journey has included roles as departmental chair, faculty dean, and director of the GNS Centre, where she helped shape curricula and mentored future scholars.

The NSCEA’s Role and Pastor Damina’s Controversial Teachings

Responding to Pastor Damina’s dismissal of the NSCEA’s open letter—which criticised several of his public statements—Prof. Adesanya-Davies explained that the council plays a pivotal role in Christian unity and doctrine in Nigeria.

“NSCEA operates like angels on assignment,” she said. “We are the engine room for the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). We deliberate on policy, mediate disputes, and defend the Christian faith.”

The council, she clarified, is composed of bishops, professors, and professionals who aim to foster unity among denominations and influence Christian policy at the national level.

Specific Allegations Against Damina

According to Prof. Adesanya-Davies, the NSCEA’s letter warned Damina against teachings that diverge from biblical orthodoxy. Among these are his claims that “there is no heaven,” “Holy Communion is unnecessary,” and “tithing is not required.”

“These teachings contradict foundational Christian doctrines,” she said. “They sow confusion, particularly among youths and unbelievers. Such sensationalism must be challenged.”

She also criticised Damina’s rhetorical style and body language, calling them “unbefitting of Christian communication.”

A Call for Retraction, Not Malice

Asked whether the NSCEA’s letter was a warning or advice, Adesanya-Davies replied, “It is a warning of great concern—a disclaimer and an excommunication.”

She refuted Pastor Damina’s claim that the council was maligning him, stating the letter was a necessary intervention to preserve doctrinal integrity.

“The purpose was not to malign but to provide a remedy and protect the church from further confusion. He must retract and reframe his teachings with love and respect,” she said.

Dismissing Damina’s Invitation to NSCEA Members

Responding to Damina’s invitation for NSCEA members to attend his foundational discipleship class, Adesanya-Davies called the offer “rude and unacceptable.”

“Our council includes distinguished elders—octogenarians and nonagenarians—with decades of theological and academic excellence,” she said. “Such a statement only underscores the arrogance we’re addressing.”

On Tithing and Discerning Truth

She offered a balanced view on the controversial issue of tithing, describing it as a spiritual principle that should not be enforced but practiced voluntarily.

“Churches should teach generosity and financial stewardship rather than impose legalistic giving,” she noted.

To young Christians navigating conflicting teachings, she advised: “Be grounded in scripture. Evaluate teachings in light of biblical truth. Seek unity and avoid doctrinal extremism.”

Why She Entered Politics

On her 2019 presidential bid, Prof. Adesanya-Davies said her motivation was to bring exemplary leadership and address the needs of Nigeria’s youth.

“I wanted to offer fresh and selfless leadership. As a professor and mother, I felt I could bring unique skills to national governance,” she explained.

Her candidacy was endorsed by the National Association of Nigerian Students, a testament to her connection with youth advocacy and education.

Conclusion

As theological debates continue to stir controversy across Nigeria’s Christian landscape, voices like Prof. Adesanya-Davies' serve as a reminder of the enduring call for doctrinal integrity, unity, and respectful discourse. Whether the NSCEA’s warning will spark reflection or further resistance from Pastor Damina remains to be seen—but the conversation about truth and responsibility in ministry is clearly far from over.