By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has suspended one of its pastors, Pastor Ayorinde AdeBello, and Deacon Oke Mayowa, from office over allegations of homosexuality against young people in the church.

The church has also directed the Special Assistant to the General Overseer on Administration to conduct a thorough investigation into the allegation within two weeks.

In an internal memo dated 28th of October, 2024 with Ref: RCCG/NO/s.04/13/vol.1 and titled: “Investigation and Suspension Regarding Allegations of Homosexuality,” addressed to Special Assistant to the General Overseer on Administration, the church stated that its doctrine does not allow or tolerate any act of homosexuality.

Signed by RCCG National Overseer, Pastor Sunday Akande and copied to all National organs in the church, it advised that the situation must be handled with care and integrity, and in accordance with the their values as a church.

“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,” the church stated.

“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.”

In letter of removal addressed to Pastor Ayorinde Bello, dated October 25, which SaharaReporters obtained on Tuesday, the church directed him to comply and relinquish all his positions in the church, given the seriousness of the allegations.

In the letter of Removal From Office – pastor Ayorinde AdeBello which was signed by Laolu Oroge, Secretary, RCCG PSF Global Council, reminded him that the offences he was alleged to have committed are criminal offences against the state and punishable by law, where a person is proven to be guilty beyond any reasonable doubts.

The letter partly read: “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.”