RCCG Investigates Sodomy Allegations Against Youth Pastors, Suspends Accused
The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has launched an internal investigation into allegations of sodomy involving two of its youth pastors, following reports that surfaced on a controversial blog accusing them of engaging in inappropriate conduct with teenage boys.
Speaking to Sunday PUNCH, the National Overseer of RCCG, Pastor Sunday Akande, described the allegations as unprecedented within the church, affirming that the case is being treated with utmost seriousness.
“This is the first time an allegation like this has been raised against the church. If we see anything like this, the church will investigate it and see how we can address it,” Akande said. “To the best of my knowledge, nobody has come forward yet as a victim of harassment.”
According to Akande, a panel has been set up to thoroughly investigate the allegations, and the accused pastors have been suspended pending the outcome of the probe. He stated that the suspension was necessary to create space for any potential victims to come forward and testify.
Controversial Allegations Spark Investigation
The accusations gained traction after the anonymous blog Gistlover alleged that the two youth pastors lured teenage boys into homosexuality and used fake Bible study sessions as a guise to facilitate inappropriate encounters. The blog also published testimonies, including one from a 20-year-old who claimed the pastors had “influenced many into being gay.”
One of the pastors responded in a public statement, categorically denying the accusations. “I have never demanded sex from any male as payment or gratification in order to give them assistance, platforms, or positions,” he said, emphasizing that his ministry activities were guided by biblical principles.
Addressing purported WhatsApp messages cited by the blog, the pastor explained that they came from a group chat dedicated to discussions on male reproductive health and self-esteem. He said the conversations focused on hygiene, proper underwear sizing, and boosting confidence among teenage boys.
Church Takes Official Action
The RCCG, in a suspension letter dated October 28, reiterated its commitment to biblical teachings and said it does not condone any form of misconduct. The church emphasized that the suspension should not be viewed as a declaration of guilt but rather a procedural measure during its ongoing investigation.
Meanwhile, the family of one of the suspended pastors has taken legal action. In a petition filed to the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) in Alagbon, the family, through their legal counsel Adekunle Adeyinka, accused Gistlover of defamation.
The petition claims that the allegations are baseless and have inflicted emotional trauma on their son while also jeopardizing the family’s security.
“The allegations have caused our client severe emotional distress and placed his family at risk of unwarranted public attacks,” the petition reads.
Awaiting Clarity
As the investigation continues, the church has urged calm and restraint while maintaining its commitment to transparency and justice. Stakeholders within the RCCG community and the broader public await further developments, particularly whether any alleged victims will come forward.
