A pastor from the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has sparked outrage and soul-searching within Nigeria’s prominent Pentecostal community after he was accused of absconding with $8,000 in church funds, leaving his wife in distress, and remarrying after relocating to the United States.
The incident came to light during a men’s ministry event when Pastor Folu Adeboye, wife of RCCG’s General Overseer Pastor E.A. Adeboye, shared details of the shocking betrayal in a now-viral video. The pastor in question, originally from Ekiti State and assigned to Cape Town, South Africa, reportedly convinced church members to contribute $8,000 towards securing a permanent site for their parish. However, soon after receiving the funds, he allegedly abandoned his wife in South Africa and traveled to the US, where he married another woman.
Pastor Folu Adeboye recounted the devastating impact on the pastor’s deserted wife, stating, “The woman she abandoned in South Africa is presently in a terrible state now, almost running mad.” She expressed deep concern over the rise of dishonesty and deceit, challenging RCCG men and leaders to uphold integrity and accountability in the face of such betrayals.
The alleged actions have prompted broad condemnation and renewed calls for stricter oversight in church leadership appointments and financial transactions. Many church members expressed disappointment on social media, pointing to the emotional and reputational damage caused by the scandal.
The RCCG, a global megachurch founded in Lagos, faces renewed scrutiny as its leaders push for greater accountability and transparency to restore public trust. The fate of the pastor’s abandoned wife remains a matter of concern, with church officials urged to provide assistance and support to those adversely affected by such incidents.