The Redeemed Christian Church of God has introduced the suspense of 2 ministers, Pastor Ayorinde AdeBello and Deacon Oke Mayowa.
Those tendencies observe viral allegations of homosexuality nearest the frequent weblog Gistlover excused an inventory of chief Nigerians allegedly concerned.
Social media reactions have known a number of folks, together with Pastor Ayorinde.
This was once defined in an interior memo dated twenty eighth October 2024, signed by means of RCCG Nationwide Overseer, Pastor Sunday Akande, titled “RCCG Suspends Two Pastors Amidst Homosexuality Allegations.”
Akande knowledgeable the church’s Particular Workman to the Basic Overseer on Management of the verdict to quickly relieve the accused in their tasks day the church conducts an investigation.
Within the memo, Akande underscored RCCG’s constancy to upholding biblical ideas.
“Our mission is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Bible, and we must address these allegations with the seriousness they deserve,” he mentioned.
The RCCG’s stance on homosexuality is in accordance with passages reminiscent of Leviticus 18:22, which describes same-sex members of the family 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 additional famous.
Akande directed the Particular Workman to assure a radical investigation of the allegations.
He known as for the inquiry to be treated with confidentiality and admire for all concerned events, pointing out that the church’s management had asked that the investigation be concluded inside of two weeks.
All the way through this era, Akande suggested AdeBello, Mayowa, and any others allegedly concerned to chorus from taking part in any church actions, clarifying that the suspense is a precautionary measure pending the end result of the investigation.
“This is a matter of integrity and adherence to our values,” he affirmed.
This isn’t the primary presen RCCG has encountered demanding situations alike to doctrinal adherence. As one in every of Nigeria’s biggest Christian organisations, RCCG has often addressed problems it perceives as opposite to its values, prioritising self-discipline and strict adherence to its interpretation of biblical morality.
The end result of the investigation is predicted to have an effect on RCCG’s strategy to matching problems going forward.
The church’s dealing with of this subject would possibly lend as a message to its international club, reaffirming RCCG’s constancy to its doctrines amid evolving societal norms.
In the meantime, one of the vital suspended pastors, Ayorinde, spoke back in an Instagram publish with an legit remark titled “My Response to the Allegation of Sodomising Teenagers,” denying all accusations.
“Within the age few days, allegations were made towards me and others by the use of a weblog on social media referred to as Gistlover.
“I had to start with sought after to reply as quickly because the allegations got here to my consideration, however I used to be instructed to not, as I used to be no longer the one one named, and we can have been integrated to power engagement at the weblog.
“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 remark learn.
He maintained that, whether or not for gratification or any alternative reason why, he would by no means interact in such acts and hasn’t ever trapped nor preyed on unsuspecting youngsters.
“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 additional mentioned, “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 once taken out of context, meant simply for instructing functions inside of a male youngsters’ WhatsApp crew, the place discussions on male reproductive condition and conceit had been held.
“I’ve by no means sodomised or had intercourse with any male teen, nor have I had any sexual interactions with Mr. Jedidiah or proposed intercourse to him for any reason why.
“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 once mischievously quoted out of context to painting him as somebody who engages in sexual members of the family with male youngsters.
“Please be aware that we have got coated a dimension of subjects within the WhatsApp crew, together with Bible research, devotion conferences, teachers, profession alternatives, year talents, 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.