The Redeemed Christian Church of God has announced the suspension of two ministers, Pastor Ayorinde AdeBello and Deacon Oke Mayowa.
These developments follow viral allegations of homosexuality after the popular blog Gistlover released a list of prominent Nigerians allegedly involved.
Social media reactions have identified several individuals, including Pastor Ayorinde.
This was outlined in an internal memo dated 28th October 2024, signed by RCCG National Overseer, Pastor Sunday Akande, titled “RCCG Suspends Two Pastors Amidst Homosexuality Allegations.”
Akande informed the church’s Special Assistant to the General Overseer on Administration of the decision to temporarily relieve the accused of their duties while the church conducts an investigation.
In the memo, Akande underscored RCCG’s commitment to upholding biblical principles.
“Our mission is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Bible, and we must address these allegations with the seriousness they deserve,” he stated.
The RCCG’s stance on homosexuality is based on passages such as Leviticus 18:22, which describes same-sex relations as an “abomination,” and 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, which warns that the “unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
“For RCCG, adhering to these principles is seen as a core part of its mission,” Akande further noted.
Akande directed the Special Assistant to ensure a thorough investigation of the allegations.
He called for the inquiry to be handled with confidentiality and respect for all involved parties, stating that the church’s leadership had requested that the investigation be concluded within two weeks.
During this period, Akande instructed AdeBello, Mayowa, and any others allegedly involved to refrain from participating in any church activities, clarifying that the suspension is a precautionary measure pending the outcome of the investigation.
“This is a matter of integrity and adherence to our values,” he affirmed.
This is not the first time RCCG has encountered challenges related to doctrinal adherence. As one of Nigeria’s largest Christian organisations, RCCG has frequently addressed issues it perceives as contrary to its values, prioritising discipline and strict adherence to its interpretation of biblical morality.
The outcome of the investigation is expected to impact RCCG’s approach to similar issues in the future.
The church’s handling of this matter may serve as a message to its global membership, reaffirming RCCG’s commitment to its doctrines amid evolving societal norms.
Meanwhile, one of the suspended pastors, Ayorinde, responded in an Instagram post with an official statement titled “My Response to the Allegation of Sodomising Teenagers,” denying all accusations.
“In the past few days, allegations have been made against me and others via a blog on social media known as Gistlover.
“I had initially wanted to respond as soon as the allegations came to my attention, but I was advised not to, as I was not the only one named, and we may have been included to drive engagement on the blog.
“However, as these allegations have now escalated into criminal accusations, I am compelled to respond, as my prolonged silence has been misconstrued as an admission of guilt,” the statement read.
He maintained that, whether for gratification or any other reason, he would never engage in such acts and has never trapped nor preyed on unsuspecting teenagers.
“It was alleged that I have engaged in sodomy with male teenagers, implying that I have been having sex with them. It was also claimed that I demanded sex from males as payment or gratification to offer them assistance, platforms, or positions as a kingmaker. Some individuals were mentioned as those with whom I have allegedly had such relationships and to whom I have given platforms.”
He further stated, “A damaging picture was posted online, portraying me as allegedly having sodomised one Mr. Jedidiah. A screenshot of a conversation in a WhatsApp group for male teenagers was also posted online,” he added.
The suspended RCCG minister clarified that the viral WhatsApp message was taken out of context, intended merely for teaching purposes within a male teenagers’ WhatsApp group, where discussions on male reproductive health and self-esteem were held.
“I have never sodomised or had sex with any male teenager, nor have I had any sexual interactions with Mr. Jedidiah or proposed sex to him for any reason.
“The questions in the screenshot were asked during a conversation in the group. The teenagers were taught about hygiene, the appropriate types of underwear to purchase, and that girth and length determine size. I also reassured them that their sizes should not impact their self-esteem and that they are perfectly and uniquely created by God.”
Ayorinde asserted that the WhatsApp message was mischievously quoted out of context to portray him as someone who engages in sexual relations with male teenagers.
“Please note that we have covered a range of topics in the WhatsApp group, including Bible studies, prayer meetings, academics, career choices, life skills, and discussions on father-son and mother-son relationships.
“We have also discussed interactions with females, specifically how to respect and relate to them, which the teenagers in the group, particularly the male National Teens Executives, can attest to.”
“The instigators and accusers have used anonymity as their weapon of choice, attacking me from various quarters. Now, I have clarified the WhatsApp screenshot, which is the only ‘evidence’ presented. I categorically affirm that I am innocent of the allegations against me,” he concluded.