The Redeemed Christian Church of God suspends pastors Ayorinde AdeBello and Oke Mayowa following serious allegations of homosexuality.

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has announced the suspension of two ministers, Pastor Ayorinde AdeBello and Deacon Oke Mayowa, amid viral allegations of homosexuality.

This decision comes after prominent Nigerian blog Gistlover released a list implicating several high-profile individuals, including AdeBello, in these serious accusations.

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An internal memo dated 28th October 2024, signed by RCCG National Overseer Pastor Sunday Akande, outlined the church’s decision to temporarily relieve the ministers of their duties while an investigation is conducted.

In the memo, Akande reaffirmed RCCG’s commitment to upholding biblical principles and treating the allegations with the seriousness they warrant.

“Our mission is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Bible, and we must address these allegations with the seriousness they deserve,” Akande stated.

He referred to biblical passages such as Leviticus 18:22, which labels same-sex relations as an “abomination,” and 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, which warns that “the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God.” Akande noted that adhering to these principles is a core aspect of RCCG’s mission.

He instructed the church’s Special Assistant to ensure a thorough and confidential investigation into the allegations, emphasising that the inquiry should be conducted with respect for all parties involved.

The church’s leadership has requested that the investigation be concluded within two weeks. During this period, AdeBello, Mayowa, and anyone else implicated are to refrain from participating in church activities, a precautionary measure pending the investigation’s outcome.

“This is a matter of integrity and adherence to our values,” Akande affirmed.

RCCG has faced challenges related to doctrinal adherence in the past. As one of Nigeria’s largest Christian organisations, it frequently addresses issues it perceives as contrary to its teachings, prioritising discipline and strict adherence to its interpretation of biblical morality.

The outcome of this investigation could influence the church’s approach to similar issues in the future, sending a strong message to its global membership about its commitment to its doctrines amid changing societal norms.

In a response to the allegations, Pastor Ayorinde took to Instagram with a statement titled “My Response to the Allegation of Sodomising Teenagers.”

He categorically denied all accusations and expressed his concern that his silence had been misconstrued as an admission of guilt.

“In the past few days, allegations have been made against me and others via a blog on social media known as Gistlover,” he explained.

He maintained that he has never engaged in any acts of sodomy and rejected claims that he preyed on male teenagers or demanded sexual favours in exchange for assistance.

Ayorinde detailed that allegations suggested he had engaged in inappropriate relationships with male teenagers, including one named Mr. Jedidiah.

He clarified that a damaging picture and a WhatsApp screenshot circulating online had been misrepresented, stating that the group discussions were focused on male reproductive health and self-esteem.

“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,” he affirmed.

Ayorinde explained that the WhatsApp messages were intended for teaching purposes and were taken out of context, aiming to provide guidance on various topics, including hygiene, academics, and respectful interactions with females.

“I categorically affirm that I am innocent of the allegations against me,” he concluded, asserting that he would continue to uphold his integrity amid the storm of accusations.

The church’s decision to suspend the ministers, coupled with the ongoing investigation, underscores the complexities and sensitivities surrounding issues of morality within religious institutions in Nigeria, particularly in the face of evolving societal norms.