The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has clarified his earlier statement on call for the release of popular TikToker Olumide Ogunsanwo, known as “Seaking.”
The social media influencer was arrested on Thursday at a Lagos State court over allegations of cyberbullying, particularly targeting Pastor Adeboye.
Initially, Pastor Adeboye had distanced himself from Seaking’s arrest, urging the Nigerian police to release him.
During a church program on Friday, February 7, he said, “I heard that someone lambasted me thoroughly. What is my offence? Because I asked my people to fast for 100 days? I didn’t ask him. I didn’t even ask anyone who isn’t a member of the Redeemed Christian Church of God to fast—only my children! God said it would happen.”
Addressing the situation, Adeboye added, “I was told that some people got angry and went to arrest the fellow. Release him. He is fulfilling prophecy.”
However, RCCG has now issued a statement titled “Clarification on the Ongoing Investigation Regarding Seaking303,” explaining Pastor Adeboye’s position.
The church clarified that while the General Overseer had initially called for Seaking’s release, the matter requires proper legal handling.
The statement read, “There has been a video in circulation calling for the release of Seaking303 by Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye. However, it is important to note that the earlier videos containing potentially defamatory statements had not been thoroughly examined. Upon careful review of the concerns raised regarding certain statements and allegations, it has become necessary to allow the law to take its course.”
The church also emphasized that Pastor Adeboye’s comments during the Holy Ghost Service were not meant to interfere with the ongoing investigation. “The Church does not intend to interfere with the ongoing police investigation, especially as there is an official complaint filed by the Concerned Christian Youth Forum against Olumide Ogunsanwo (Seaking303) and others on behalf of the Fathers of Faith, including Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye,” the statement noted.
RCCG urged the authorities to handle the investigation professionally and reach a fair conclusion based on the law. The church also advised against cyberbullying and disrespectful comments directed at Pastor Adeboye, RCCG, or the Christian community.
“While Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye maintains a heart of love and reconciliation, due process must be followed. We also caution against cyberbullying and inappropriate commentary regarding Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, the Redeemed Christian Church of God, and the body of Christ at large,” the statement added.
