RCCG Suspends Pastor, Deacon Over Allegations of Homosexuality Activities with Young Members

The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has announced the suspension of Pastor Ayorinde AdeBello and Deacon Oke Mayowa following serious allegations of homosexual conduct involving young members of the church. The suspension was issued in line with RCCG’s doctrinal stance, which strictly prohibits any acts of homosexuality, as outlined in the Bible.

In a formal internal memo dated October 28, 2024, and referenced as RCCG/NO/s.04/13/vol.1, the church directed its Special Assistant to the General Overseer on Administration to initiate a comprehensive investigation within two weeks. This memo, signed by RCCG National Overseer Pastor Sunday Akande, emphasized the need for a balanced and respectful inquiry to uphold RCCG’s values and integrity.

“This memo serves to inform you of serious allegations of homosexuality against Pastor Ayorinde AdeBello and Deacon Oke Mayowa,” the memo states. “In accordance with our mission’s commitment to upholding the teachings of the Bible, we must address these allegations with the utmost seriousness they deserve.”

The church cited specific Biblical passages, including Leviticus 18:22 and 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, affirming its doctrinal basis for prohibiting homosexual conduct within its ranks. Pastor AdeBello and Deacon Mayowa have been asked to relinquish all church responsibilities pending the investigation’s outcome.

In a separate “Letter of Removal from Office” issued on October 25 and signed by Laolu Oroge, Secretary of RCCG’s Pastors Seed Family (PSF) Global Council, Pastor AdeBello was specifically instructed to comply with his removal due to alleged misconduct with teenage boys. The letter asserts that these accusations, if proven true, are criminal offenses under state law.

“We write to inform you of your immediate suspension from any responsibilities within the RCCG Pastors Seed Family. This decision comes in light of serious allegations about your inappropriate conduct with teenage boys,” the letter read, underscoring RCCG’s commitment to protecting its community, particularly vulnerable members. “These allegations undermine the core values of holiness, accountability, transparency, and protection for all individuals.”

Furthermore, RCCG called for an independent investigation to determine the validity of these claims. The church stated that any verified misconduct would result in indefinite removal from office, emphasizing that inappropriate or unethical behavior is a severe breach of duty to those whom RCCG is responsible for serving and protecting.

Pastor AdeBello has been advised to voluntarily step down from any other church-related and external positions he holds, and to cooperate fully with the investigative process. The RCCG has underscored its commitment to addressing this matter with both integrity and transparency and has reiterated that it expects full compliance from the accused.

The RCCG leadership emphasized, “We are committed to ensuring that the truth is revealed and appropriate actions are taken in response to these allegations.”