The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has suspended Pastor Ayorinde AdeBello following allegations of homosexuality.
The suspension announced in an official memo dated October 28, 2024, and signed by the church’s national overseer, Pastor Sunday Akande, also includes another pastor.
In the memo, Akande emphasized that the RCCG is conducting a thorough investigation into the allegations, temporarily relieving both pastors of their duties. He reiterated the church’s commitment to upholding biblical teachings, which do not condone any form of homosexuality.
Pastor AdeBello addressed the allegations on Instagram, firmly denying any involvement in sodomy. “I never engaged in sodomy with male teenagers,” he stated, explaining that his previous silence was misconstrued as guilt.
He clarified that comments he made in a viral WhatsApp conversation were taken out of context and related to discussions about male reproductive health and self-esteem within a group of teenage boys.
“In the past few days, some allegations were made against me and others via a blog known as Gist Lover,” he wrote.
“I had wanted to respond immediately, but I was advised not to, as I was not the only one named, and all of us may have been mentioned to drive engagement on the blog.”
AdeBello asserted that he has never solicited sexual favors from anyone in exchange for assistance or opportunities, emphasising, “God is the only King Maker.”
He also stated that the allegations misrepresent the nature of his discussions, which focused on educating teenagers about hygiene and self-esteem.
“It is disheartening to see that the screenshot message has now been mischievously quoted out of context to portray me as someone who has sex with male teenagers,” he concluded.
The RCCG’s investigation is ongoing, as the church seeks to address the serious nature of the allegations while maintaining its stance on biblical principles.
