Ayorinde AdeBello, a pastor recently suspended by the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has publicly denied allegations of homosexuality that prompted his suspension.
The church announced the temporary suspension of AdeBello, along with another pastor, in an RCCG memo dated October 28, 2024. The memo, signed by National Overseer Sunday Akande, called for an investigation into the allegations.
The memo emphasized that RCCG’s doctrine strictly opposes homosexuality, citing biblical principles as its foundation.
In response, AdeBello took to Instagram to deny the allegations, stating, “I never engaged in sodomy with male teenagers.”
He explained that his initial silence on the matter had been misinterpreted as guilt, prompting him to clarify.
AdeBello alleged that a viral WhatsApp screenshot being used against him was taken out of context, explaining that the conversation pertained to discussions on male reproductive health and self-esteem in a youth group chat.
The statement reads, “In the past few days, some allegations were made against me and some others via a blog on social media known as Gist Lover.
I had wanted to respond immediately it was brought to my attention, but I was advised not to, as I was not the only one named, and all of us may have been mentioned to drive engagement on the blog.
“However, as these allegations have escalated to criminal claims, I am compelled to respond as my prolonged silence has been misconstrued as an admission of guilt.
“I have NEVER demanded for sex from any male as payment or gratification in order to give them assistance, platforms or positions. God is the only King Maker, the only One who can raise and erase kings, give positions and platforms.
“I have NEVER had sex with (*******) or proposed sex to him for any reason.
“The questions in the screenshot were asked during a conversation in a male teenagers WhatsApp group where discussions regarding Male Reproductive Health and Self Esteem took place.
“The teenagers were taught about the right hygiene for reproductive health, the right kind of underwear to buy, and that the girth and length determines the underwear size. I also explained that their sizes should not affect their self-esteem and that they are perfectly and uniquely created by God.
“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.”