Pastor Ayorinde AdeBello, a senior figure in the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has responded to allegations of sexual misconduct and sodomy that have surfaced online.
These accusations first appeared on the popular social media blog, Gist Lover, leading to AdeBello’s immediate suspension from church activities and duties.
In a detailed statement obtained by Stonix News, Pastor AdeBello denied all allegations, stating that he had initially chosen to remain silent on the matter.
“I wanted to respond immediately,” he said, “but I was advised against it because I was not the only one named.”
AdeBello suggested that multiple names might have been included in the blog’s report to increase readership and create a media storm.
The allegations against AdeBello include claims of sodomy with young male congregants and requests for sexual favors in exchange for assistance.
In his statement, AdeBello firmly rejected these claims, stating, “I have NEVER engaged in sodomy or had any sexual relations with male teenagers.”
One of the allegations alleges that AdeBello demanded sexual favors from men as payment for providing assistance or professional opportunities.
“I have NEVER demanded sex from anyone as a form of payment or for career advancement,” AdeBello stated emphatically.
Among the accusations, a damaging picture was posted online, hinting at an inappropriate relationship between AdeBello and an individual identified as Mr. Jedidiah.
AdeBello denied any improper relationship, saying, “I have NEVER had sex with Mr. Jedidiah, nor have I proposed it for any reason.”
Screenshots of conversations between AdeBello and young men on a WhatsApp group also surfaced, raising further questions about his conduct.
According to AdeBello, these discussions were purely educational, touching on topics related to male reproductive health and self-esteem.
“These discussions were designed to offer guidance and promote self-worth,” AdeBello explained.
He clarified that conversations within the group included Bible study, academic guidance, and life skills, with a focus on fostering respectful interactions.
“It is unfortunate that the messages from this group have now been quoted out of context,” he added.
In a letter dated October 25, signed by Laolu Oroge, Secretary of the RCCG Pastors’ Seeds Family (PSF), the RCCG announced AdeBello’s suspension.
The church expressed its concern, stating that if proven true, these accusations would contradict the values upheld by the RCCG Pastors Seed Family.
“These allegations undermine our core principles of holiness, accountability, transparency, and the protection of all members, especially the vulnerable,” the letter said.
The RCCG emphasized that any form of predatory behavior would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Following the surfacing of these allegations, the RCCG has initiated an independent investigation into AdeBello’s conduct.
The letter clearly stated, “An impartial and internal investigation will be conducted. If the allegations are confirmed, this will result in your indefinite removal from any RCCG office.”
The RCCG stated that this investigation is aimed at ensuring that the church’s standards of accountability are upheld.
AdeBello has been instructed to relinquish all positions and privileges connected to his role within the church.
This directive includes his removal from RCCG platforms associated with the Pastors Seed Family.
The church leadership, referring to the nature of the discussions allegedly shared on a WhatsApp group, said, “Any sensible authority figure should avoid engaging in such discussions.”
The RCCG’s Global Council urged AdeBello to step down from any other external positions of authority he may hold.
The council highlighted that this request is a matter of integrity, given the serious nature of the allegations.
AdeBello has been advised to fully cooperate with the investigation to preserve its credibility.
The letter also referenced a Bible verse, Acts 24:16, as a reminder of the importance of a clear conscience.
“Acts 24:16 reminds us: ‘And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men,’” the letter noted.
The RCCG leadership stressed that these allegations also carry legal implications if substantiated.
“These allegations, if proven true, are criminal offences punishable by law,” the letter warned, emphasizing the potential legal consequences of the accusations.
