Adeboye defends Tinubu’s RCCG pastorship, rejects removal calls

Amid rising scrutiny over the overlap between faith and politics, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Enoch Adejare Adeboye, has drawn a firm line insisting the First Lady’s place in the church is rooted in doctrine, not political power.

Adeboye declared that Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, will not be removed from her position as an ordained pastor in the RCCG, despite growing public debate and calls from some quarters questioning her dual role.

Speaking during the church’s monthly Holy Ghost Service, Adeboye clarified that Oluremi Tinubu was ordained as an Assistant Pastor more than a decade ago, long before her husband, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, showed any intention of running for the presidency. He emphasized that her ordination followed due process and was based on her personal commitment to the church.

According to him, the First Lady has not violated any of the church’s doctrines or guidelines that would warrant her removal. He stressed that the church’s decisions are guided strictly by its spiritual principles, not by political developments or public opinion.

“The ordination was done properly, and she has not breached any of the church’s principles,” Adeboye said. “We will not yield to external pressure or sentiments that are not grounded in our doctrine.”

His remarks come amid increasing scrutiny over the intersection of religion and governance in Nigeria, particularly involving prominent figures who hold influential roles in both spheres. Critics argue that Oluremi Tinubu’s dual position as First Lady and ordained pastor raises ethical concerns and could blur the line between religious authority and political influence. Supporters, however, maintain that her religious standing is personal, earned, and independent of her husband’s political career.

Adeboye’s statement appears aimed at reinforcing the autonomy of the church in managing its internal affairs. By highlighting the timeline of her ordination, he sought to dispel claims that her elevation within the RCCG was influenced by political considerations tied to her husband’s current office.

The RCCG, one of Nigeria’s largest Pentecostal churches, has long played a significant role in the country’s religious landscape, with millions of followers across Nigeria and beyond. While the church has traditionally maintained a cautious approach to politics, many of its members are active in public service.

For Oluremi Tinubu, who previously served as a senator representing Lagos Central, the clarification reaffirms her standing within the church community. Known for her advocacy on social development and women’s issues, she has remained active in both religious and public life.

Adeboye’s firm stance leaves little room for ambiguity: Oluremi Tinubu will retain her pastoral position, and any calls for her removal will only be considered if tied to a breach of the church’s established doctrines.