Following allegations of homosexuality that went viral on the internet, the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCC FCG) has announced the suspension of two ministers, Pastor Ayorinde AdeBello and Deacon Oke Mayowa.
The directive was contained in a letter dated 28h October, 2024, signed by the RCCG National Overseer, Pastor Sunday Akande and addressed to the Special Assistant to the General Overseer on Administration.
In the letter titled: “Investigation and Suspension Regarding Allegations of Homosexuality,” the National Overseer informed of serious allegations of homosexuality made against Pastor Ayorinde AdeBello and Deacon Oke Mayowa.
“Our mission is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Bible, and we must address these allegations with the seriousness they deserve,” he stated.
“As you are aware, the doctrine of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) does not allow or tolerate any act of homosexuality,” the letter reads.
“The holiness-preaching church has been firm in maintaining traditional interpretations of scripture, particularly on moral issues
“The RCCG’s stance on homosexuality is rooted in passages such as Leviticus 18:22, (“You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination) which refers to same-sex relations as an “abomination,” and 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, (Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually imnmoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality) 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.
Pastor Akande, however, directed the Special Assistant to ensure that a thorough investigation was conducted on the allegations.
“In light of these allegations, you are now directed to conduct a thorough investigation,” the letter reads.
He called for the inquiry to be handled with confidentiality and respect for all involved parties.
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He also stated that the church’s leadership has requested that the investigation be concluded within two weeks.
Further to this, the church directed Pastor AdeBello, Deacon Mayowa and other accused persons to be temporarily relieved from all of their responsibilities in all mission organs pending the outcome of this investigation.
Pastor Akande made it clear 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 faced 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 a strict adherence to its interpretation of biblical morality.
The church’s handling of the matter may serve as a message to its global membership, reaffirming RCCG’s commitment to its doctrines amid evolving societal norms.
