The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has said that Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, will remain an ordained pastor in the church despite growing calls for her removal.
Pastor Adeboye made the declaration during the church’s monthly Holy Ghost Service, a major worship programme held regularly by the RCCG, which attracts large gatherings of members from Nigeria and abroad.
His statement comes amid public debate over the role of politically exposed persons in religious leadership positions, especially when their family members hold top government offices.
According to Adeboye, Oluremi Tinubu was ordained as an Assistant Pastor in the RCCG more than ten years ago. He explained that her ordination took place long before her husband, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, showed interest in contesting for the presidency.
He stressed that her appointment followed the full procedures and spiritual requirements of the church and was not influenced by political considerations.
“She was properly ordained many years ago, long before the political journey of her husband to the presidency began,” Adeboye said. “We will not remove her because of political pressure.”
The RCCG leader further explained that the church operates under clear spiritual rules and administrative processes that guide decisions on ordination, service, and leadership. He said these rules apply to all members equally, regardless of their social or political status.
According to him, the church will not allow external influence or public opinion to dictate internal spiritual decisions. He said the RCCG remains committed to its doctrines and will not compromise its standards due to political sentiments or public agitation.
Pastor Adeboye also maintained that the First Lady remains in good standing within the church and continues to serve actively in her pastoral role. He did not indicate any disciplinary issues or violations of church rules that would warrant her removal.
The statement has drawn attention because of the intersection between religion and politics in Nigeria, where religious leaders often play significant roles in shaping public opinion.
Nigeria is a deeply religious country, with Christianity and Islam being the dominant faiths. Many top political figures are also active members of religious organisations, and some hold leadership positions within their churches or mosques.
The RCCG, founded in 1952, is one of the largest Pentecostal churches in the world, with millions of members across Nigeria and several other countries. The church is known for its structured leadership system and emphasis on discipline, evangelism, and global outreach.
Over the years, some public discussions have emerged about whether individuals in political families should continue to hold leadership roles in religious institutions, especially when such roles could be seen as politically sensitive.
However, Pastor Adeboye’s remarks suggest that the RCCG sees ordination as a spiritual calling that is not subject to political considerations. His position reinforces the church’s long-standing principle that once a person is properly ordained, they remain in ministry unless there is a clear breach of doctrine or misconduct.
Oluremi Tinubu, who has been involved in ministry work for many years, is also known for her political career. She previously served as a senator representing Lagos Central before becoming First Lady when her husband assumed office in 2023.
Her dual role as both a political figure and ordained minister has often attracted public interest, especially in discussions about the separation of church and state in Nigeria.
Pastor Adeboye’s statement appears aimed at addressing concerns that political developments could influence church decisions. By reaffirming her position, the RCCG leader made it clear that the church intends to maintain its independence in spiritual matters.
He also highlighted that the ordination process within the RCCG is not casual or symbolic, but a serious spiritual commitment that follows strict guidelines. According to him, those who are ordained are expected to continue serving unless they violate the core teachings of the church.
The Holy Ghost Service, where the statement was made, is one of the RCCG’s most important monthly programmes. It typically features prayers, sermons, worship, and teachings that draw large audiences both physically and online.
In recent years, the RCCG has expanded significantly, with parishes in many countries and a strong global following. Its leadership structure allows for both spiritual oversight and administrative discipline across its branches.
Pastor Adeboye, who has led the church for decades, is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most influential religious leaders. His comments on national issues often attract attention beyond the church community.