RCCG suspends pastors over homosexuality allegations

The Redeemed Christian Church of God has announced the suspension of two ministers — Pastor Ayorinde AdeBello and Deacon Oke Mayowa over allegations of homosexuality.

The church also indicated that it had commenced investigation into the matter.

These developments followed 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 relieve those accused of their duties temporarily as probe had begun.

The memo also 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 noted.

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.

The outcome of the investigation is expected to impact RCCG’s approach to similar issues in the future.

Responding to the allegations, pastor Ayorinde in an Instagram post titled, 'My Response to the Allegation of Sodomising Teenagers,' denied all accusations.

He said, “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.”

He maintained that whether for gratification or any other reason, he would never engage in such acts and had never trapped nor preyed on unsuspecting teenagers.

He noted, “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.

“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."

The suspended RCCG minister clarified that the viral WhatsApp message was taken out of context, intended merely for teaching purposes within male teenagers’ WhatsApp group, where discussions on male reproductive health and self-esteem were held.

He asserted, “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 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."