RCCG Suspends Pastor Ayorinde AdeBello And Deacon Oke Mayowa Over Homosexuality Allegations

The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has suspended Pastor Ayorinde AdeBello and Deacon Oke Mayowa over allegations of homosexual activities involving young members of the church.

The church has instructed the Special Assistant to the General Overseer on Administration to carry out a comprehensive investigation into these claims within a two-week timeframe.

In an internal memo dated October 28, 2024, the church reiterated its stance against homosexuality, emphasizing that it does not tolerate such behavior based on its biblical teachings.

The memo was signed by Pastor Sunday Akande, the RCCG National Overseer, and shared with various church bodies, advised that the situation must be handled with care and integrity, and in accordance with the their values as a church.

The church stated, “This memo serves to inform you of serious allegations of homosexuality against Pastor Ayorinde Ade Bello and Dcn. Oke Mayowa. In accordance with our mission’s commitment to upholding the teachings of the Bible, we must address these allegations with the utmost seriousness it deserves.

“As you are aware, the doctrine of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) does not allow or tolerate any act of homosexuality. This stance is firmly rooted in biblical teachings, including but not limited to: “Leviticus 18:22 “You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination.”

“1 Corinthians 6:9-10: “Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality.”

“In light of these allegations, you are now directed to conduct a thorough investigation. Furthermore, Pastor Ayorinde AdeBello, Dcn Oke Mayowa, and all others who are alleged are to be temporarily relieved from all of their responsibilities in all mission organs pending the outcome of this investigation, which is expected to be concluded within two weeks.

“It is crucial that we handle this situation with care and integrity, and in accordance with our values as a church. Please ensure that the investigation is conducted confidentially and with respect for all parties involved.”

A separate letter to Pastor AdeBello, dated October 25, confirmed his suspension and required him to resign from his roles within the church due to the severity of the accusations.

This letter highlighted that the alleged actions are criminal offenses that carry legal repercussions if proven true.

The letter said, “We write to inform you of your immediate suspension from any responsibilities within the RCCG Pastors Seed Family. This decision comes in light of the serious allegations that have materialised about your inappropriate conduct with teenage boys.

“Furthermore, these allegations undermine the core values of the RCCG Pastors Seed Family, which include holiness, accountability, transparency and the protection of all individuals, particularly the vulnerable.”

The church insisted that predatory behaviour against those to whom the church owe a duty of care, is gravely unacceptable and will not be tolerated, if found to be true.

“We also owe those to whom we are called to serve, nurture and protect a duty to listen, investigate and redress grievances and allegations brought against those in positions of influence and authority. Therefore, an independent internal and no partial investigation will be conducted. If the allegations are substantiated, it will result in your indefinite removal from any office within the organisation.

“During this period, you are required to step down from your position and relinquish all associated responsibilities and privileges, including removal from all Pastors Seed Family related platforms.

“This is because, screenshots of your interactions on a WhatsApp group of teenage boys have emerged where you encouraged inappropriate and unethical discourse, any sensible person of authority and influence should not do.

“We also advise you in the spirit of integrity to voluntarily step down from any other positions you hold within and outside the Church.

“We further advise you to kindly cooperate with the investigation and avoid any actions that could compromise its integrity. Remember Acts 24: 16, And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.”

“We acknowledge the seriousness of this situation and are committed to ensuring that the truth is revealed and appropriate actions are taken in response to these allegations.

“We expect your prompt compliance, given the seriousness of the allegations and wish to remind you that these allegations are criminal offences against the state and punishable by law, where a person is proven to be guilty beyond any reasonable doubts.

“If you have any questions or need clarification about this decision, please contact the appropriate authorities within the RCCG Pastors Seed Family.”