The leadership of the Redeemed Christian Church of God has issued a public clarification on the political and civic positions of its General Overseer, Enoch Adejare Adeboye, as conversations continue over the role of influential religious leaders in Nigeria’s public affairs.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the church responded to claims suggesting that Adeboye had campaigned for the government in power. RCCG said the cleric has maintained a non-partisan approach over the years, encouraging members to participate in the democratic process by obtaining Permanent Voter Cards and voting according to their convictions rather than supporting any particular political party.
The church also addressed reports linking Adeboye to the cancellation of a planned protest. According to RCCG, the pastor merely relayed a directive issued by the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria concerning changes to the format of a three-day prayer programme and its concluding rally. The church said the instruction was communicated across PFN-affiliated congregations nationwide.
Beyond the specific allegations, RCCG used the statement to outline what it described as Adeboye’s long-standing approach to national issues. The church noted that the cleric has spoken on matters such as insecurity, corruption, economic challenges, elections and governance, but has typically done so through spiritual guidance, prayer and moral counsel rather than direct partisan engagement.
The response highlights increasing scrutiny faced by religious institutions and faith leaders, particularly during periods of heightened political discussion. As social media platforms continue to amplify public commentary, churches and other organisations are increasingly finding themselves responding to narratives that gain traction online.
RCCG said its intervention was aimed at ensuring accurate public understanding of its positions and those of its leader. The church urged bloggers, commentators, media organisations and members of the public to verify claims through official RCCG communication channels, stressing that information not communicated or endorsed by the church should not be treated as its official stance.
