Pastor Tolu Odukoya Describes End Of Marriage As ‘Death’, Opens Up On Separation, Personal Losses

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

The Associate Senior Pastor of The Fountain of Life Church, Toluwani Odukoya, has spoken candidly about the emotional toll of her marital separation and a string of painful family bereavements, describing how these experiences profoundly shaped her faith and ministry.

In an interview with Truth table, Odukoya revealed that her marriage ended under circumstances beyond her control, acknowledging for the first time that she has been separated.

“I’ll say I’m separated. Most people don’t know I’m separated, and that’s actually defined or has shaped my life. It was circumstances beyond my control,” she said.

The 40-year-old pastor likened the end of her marriage to “a death”, reflecting on how the years between 2021 and 2023 brought immense grief, including the passing of her stepmother, her father’s twin sister, and her father, the late Pastor Taiwo Odukoya, founder of The Fountain of Life Church.

Speaking about the separation, she emphasised that it should not be viewed as a reflection of anyone’s character. “My ex-husband is a great man… but if God doesn’t ordain you to be together and you force-fit yourselves, the likelihood of staying together is very low,” she explained.

Despite her personal struggles, Odukoya said she found the courage to embrace her pastoral calling even in seasons of doubt. “When the call came, I told God, ‘You know all the baggage I’m trying to navigate. But if you call me to serve, then maybe you’ve put something in me.’ I just decided to keep my eyes on Jesus.”

She also expressed gratitude for the support of her family, particularly her late father. “My dad fought for me. My family encouraged me. That embrace added to my self-esteem and self-worth,” she shared.

Odukoya’s reflections highlight the intersection of faith, resilience and vulnerability, as she continues to serve in ministry while navigating personal healing and renewal.