Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye has broken his silence on claims that the Redeemed Christian Church of God is a political arm of the All Progressives Congress.
The RCCG general overseer pushed back hard against the allegation, insisting that his church operates independent of any political party and that its clergy are free to support whoever they choose. Adeboye said the church's mission centres on spiritual matters, not partisan politics.
The allegation had dogged the RCCG for months, particularly after several prominent members and church leaders were seen campaigning for APC candidates during recent elections. Critics argued the church's platforms had become conduits for political messaging favourable to the ruling party.
Adeboye clarified that individual church members, including pastors, have the right to political participation and preference. He said the church does not prohibit this nor does it endorse any party as an institution. The general overseer stressed that any perception of APC alignment reflected personal choices by members, not church policy.
He also addressed concerns about the church's relationship with government officials. Adeboye said hosting political figures or engaging with government was about national development, not partisan support. He pointed to the church's humanitarian work and community projects as evidence of its non-partisan focus.
The RCCG, one of Nigeria's largest Pentecostal churches with millions of members across the country, has long maintained a high public profile. Its positions on national issues often draw scrutiny from those who monitor religious influence in politics.
Adeboye's statement appears aimed at calming internal tensions and addressing public perception ahead of future election cycles. Whether the clarification will end the allegation remains unclear, as similar questions have surfaced in past elections regarding the political leanings of major churches in Nigeria.
