Pastor Ayorinde AdeBello, who was recently suspended by the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) due to allegations of homosexuality, has publicly refuted these claims.
In a letter dated October 28, 2024, Sunday Akande, the National Overseer of RCCG, announced the suspension of Pastor AdeBello and Deacon Oke Mayowa following allegations of inappropriate conduct involving young male members of the church.
The church has initiated an investigation, which will be overseen by the Special Assistant to the General Overseer on Administration, with results anticipated within a two-week timeframe.
In response to the allegations, AdeBello took to his Instagram account to deny any wrongdoing, asserting that he has never participated in any sexual activities with male adolescents.
In a statement titled “My Response to the Allegations of Sodomizing Teenagers,” AdeBello contended that his remarks in a WhatsApp group chat had been misinterpreted.
He clarified that the discussion was centered on male reproductive health and self-esteem within a group intended for teenage boys.
The cleric expressed his disappointment that the screenshot of his message has been deliberately misrepresented to suggest that he engages in sexual relations with male teenagers.
Pastor Ayorinde AdeBello said
“In the past few days, some allegations were made against me and some others via a blog on social media.
“I had wanted to respond immediately when 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 sex from any male as payment or gratification to give them assistance, platforms or positions. God is the only king-maker, the only One who can raise and erase kings, and give positions and platforms.“I have NEVER had sex with Mr Jedidiah or proposed sex to him for any reason. The questions in the screenshot were asked during a conversation in a male teenager 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 determine 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.”