Pastor Ayorinde AdeBello
By Victory Oghene
The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has temporarily suspended Pastor Ayorinde AdeBello and Deacon Oke Mayowa over allegations of homosexual conduct with young members of the church.
The RCCG has instructed its Special Assistant to the General Overseer on Administration to investigate the claims thoroughly within a two-week period.
In an internal memo dated October 28, 2024, with reference number RCCG/NO/s.04/13/vol.1, titled “Investigation and Suspension Regarding Allegations of Homosexuality,” the church emphasized its doctrine’s strict stance against homosexuality, citing passages from Leviticus and Corinthians as a foundation for this position.
The memo, signed by National Overseer Pastor Sunday Akande and distributed to all RCCG national bodies, highlights the need to approach the investigation with integrity, care, and adherence to church values.
“This memo serves to notify you of serious allegations against Pastor Ayorinde AdeBello and Deacon Oke Mayowa,” the church stated. “RCCG doctrine strictly prohibits any act of homosexuality, and we must address these allegations with utmost seriousness.”
The memo
Pastor AdeBello and Deacon Mayowa have been directed to step down from their responsibilities across all church platforms until the investigation concludes.
In a separate letter of removal addressed to Pastor AdeBello and dated October 25, RCCG’s PSF Global Council reminded him that these alleged actions are considered criminal offenses and could result in legal consequences if substantiated.
The letter, signed by Laolu Oroge, Secretary of RCCG PSF Global Council, cited inappropriate interactions on a group chat with teenage boys and emphasized that such behavior, if proven true, contradicts the church’s core values of holiness, accountability, and protection for all members, particularly the youth.
“We have a duty to those we serve to listen, investigate, and appropriately address any grievances or allegations against those in leadership positions,” the letter stated. Should these allegations be validated, the church intends to permanently remove AdeBello from all responsibilities within the organization.
During the investigation, AdeBello has been urged to cooperate fully and avoid any actions that could compromise the investigation’s integrity.
“We recognize the gravity of this matter and are committed to uncovering the truth and taking necessary actions,” the letter concluded. “We expect your prompt compliance with these directives.”
Reacting to the allegations Adebello expressed his fustration at the misinterpretation of his initial silence as “an admission of guilt. He claimed that his delayed response was based on advice, given that other individuals were also named in the accusations.
AdeBello stated that the allegations stemmed from a social media post by a blog Gist Lover, which he believes used the claims to drive traffic online.
In his detailed Instagram statement, AdeBello clarified, “I never engaged in sodomy with male teenagers,” and stated, “I have NEVER demanded sex from any male as payment or gratification to give them assistance, platforms, or positions.”
He further emphasized his belief that only God is capable of granting influence or leadership.
Explaining a specific incident cited in the allegations, AdeBello stated that comments he made in a WhatsApp group for male teenagers had been taken out of context.
According to him, the group discussion revolved around reproductive health and self-esteem issues, where he aimed to provide guidance on appropriate hygiene practices and underwear choices.
“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,” AdeBello added.
The RCCG has yet to release further statements regarding the ongoing investigation into the allegations.
