The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) on Tuesday announced the suspension of Pastor Ayorinde Ade Bello following allegations of homosexuality.
THE WHISTLER reported Pastor Ayorinde’s suspension, alongside Deacon Oke Mayowa, was communicated through a letter dated October 28, 2024, signed by the RCCG’s national overseer, Pastor Sunday Akande.
The church also constituted a panel to investigate the allegation.
Reacting to his suspension, Pastor Bello, in an Instagram post, said: “I never engaged in sodomy with male teenagers”.
The pastor explained that his prolonged silence was misconceived as an “admission of guilt”, which led to his response.
“In the past few days, some allegations were made against me and some others via a blog on social media…,” the statement reads.
“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.”
He continued, “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.”