A Summary History of Saint Moses Orimolade Tunolase (Ajagunmokadi)
The First Baba Aladura & Founder of the Cherubim and Seraphim Church

EARLY LIFE AND PROPHECIES BEFORE HIS BIRTH
Saint Moses Orimolade Tunolase, popularly known as the First Baba Aladura, was born in Ikare, Ondo State, Nigeria, into the family of Tunolase (a renowned oracle consultant) and Abigail Odijoroto. He was the third of six children.
Before his birth, the family oracle foretold that the child in the womb would become a powerful servant of God. Several miraculous incidents were reported, including his mother hearing a voice from the womb and receiving supernatural help while carrying firewood.
Miraculous Birth
At birth, Orimolade is said to have stood up three times, attempting to walk. Shocked by this, his father used incantations to subdue him, which left his legs crippled for life.
Childhood Encounters with God
At age five, Orimolade was found singing inside St. Stephen’s Anglican Church (CMS) in Ikare. Although he was alone, the sound resembled a multitude of voices. When asked who was singing, he replied, “We are.”
This event spread his fame throughout the town, and he was later asked to teach songs to the congregation.
Confrontations with Idol Worshippers
As Orimolade’s influence grew, many turned away from idol worship, leading to clashes with masqueraders and traditionalists. In one instance, attackers armed with cutlasses and charms turned their weapons against themselves.
His followers were arrested and taken to Kabba, but through Orimolade’s prayer, they were released. It was during this period that the popular C&S hymn “E funpe na kikan” (Sound the call profoundly) was revealed.
Missionary Journeys Across Nigeria
From around 1916, Orimolade began missionary journeys across Nigeria, traveling from Ikare to Irun, Ogbagi, Kabba, Ilorin, Oshogbo, Ogbomosho, Ibadan, Abeokuta, Benin, and Lagos.
In each place, he confronted idol worship and preached the gospel:
At Irun: He pulled down the image of the idol Osijora.
At Ogidi: He prayed at a forbidden river, dried it up, and exposed strange fish-like creatures.
At Ikirun: Sango worshippers conjured thunder, which turned back and killed them.
At Ogbomosho: After being insulted, he cursed the land, leading to drought and miscarriages. Later, when the people begged for mercy, he prayed, rain fell, and pregnant women gave birth the same day.
At Benin: He condemned human sacrifice, leading many to abandon charms and idols.
Angelic Visitation
Orimolade reported a dream in which an angel gave him three gifts:
A staff – symbol of victory.
A royal insignia – symbol of authority in prayer.
A crown – symbol of honor and respect.
This experience confirmed his divine calling.
The Title “Baba Aladura”
While preaching in Lagos, Orimolade was invited by Archdeacon T. A. Ogunbiyi of the Anglican Church. He preached for hours, quoting Scripture from memory and performing miracles. Out of jealousy, Ogunbiyi planted charms at the church entrance, but instead of harming Orimolade, the church warden collapsed. Orimolade prayed for him, and he was restored.
It was after this that he was called “Baba Aladura” (Praying Father).
Miracles in Lagos
A boy who swallowed a needle vomited it after Orimolade prayed.
A woman who fell into Lagos Lagoon returned alive after his intercession.
At Obun-Eko, a masquerader who challenged Orimolade collapsed and died while he recited Psalms 24 and 91. The hymn “Aje nse lasan ni, Kerubu a pa won run” (Witches strive in vain, Cherubim will destroy them) was birthed.
Legacy
Saint Moses Orimolade Tunolase is recognized as the founder of the Cherubim and Seraphim Church (1925), which gave rise to all Nigerian white garment churches Worldwide.

His ministry emphasized:
Absolute faith in Jesus Christ
The power of the Holy Spirit
Efficacy of prayer and use of Psalms
Healing through holy water (without commercialization)
Today, he is remembered as a prophet, reformer, miracle worker, and pioneer of African Indigenous Christianity.

REFERENCES
Omoyajowo, Akin. Cherubim and Seraphim: The History of an African Independent Church. Lagos: NOK Publishers, 1978.
Oshitelu, G. A. History of the Aladura (Independent) Churches. Ibadan: Hope Publications, 2007.
Ogunewu, Michael A. and Ayegboyin, Deji. “Moses Orimolade Tunolase.” Dictionary of African Christian Biography (DACB). Link.
Omoyajowo, J. A. Cherubim and Seraphim: The Eternal Sacred Order. Lagos, 1982.
Oral Traditions and Cherubim & Seraphim Movement Church sources (Parish histories, hymns, and testimonies, e.g., Facebook groups, Morningstarian blog, CSMC Ayo Ni O official)