SNOW TV NEWS DESK
The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has recounted the emotional experience of authorizing the detention of a senior pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) over alleged financial crimes.
Olukoyede described the decision as one of the saddest moments of his life, admitting that it was particularly difficult because he shares the same religious background with the cleric.
He disclosed this while speaking to ministers and church workers after the monthly Holy Ghost Service at the Redemption City of God in Simawa, Ogun State.
The gathering was held at the invitation of RCCG General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, with discussions centered on the theme, “Ethical Standard and Corruption in Christian Community.”
Speaking about the incident, Olukoyede clarified that the allegations against the senior pastor were not related to his responsibilities within the church but to activities at his regular place of employment.
He explained that the EFCC had uncovered sufficient evidence to warrant the cleric’s detention, leaving him with no option but to approve the action despite their shared faith.
The anti-graft agency chairman used the experience to remind religious leaders that holding a prominent position in the church does not place anyone above the law.
He also raised concerns about the increasing influence of money and material wealth in some Christian communities, warning that churches must not sacrifice moral values for financial status.
According to him, giving suspected fraudsters special recognition because of their wealth sends the wrong message and could encourage financial misconduct among church members.
Olukoyede also commended Adeboye for demonstrating what he described as integrity and zero tolerance for corruption.
He recalled how the RCCG leader ordered the immediate return of billions of naira traced to church projects during an EFCC investigation into an individual suspected of financial crimes.
According to the EFCC chairman, Adeboye directed church officials to return all funds linked to the individual within 24 hours after being briefed on the commission’s findings. The money was subsequently returned to government coffers.
The EFCC boss further condemned the practice of paying money to secure church appointments, ordination, and promotions, describing such transactions as bribery and warning that both the giver and receiver could face legal consequences.
He also challenged anyone who had ever offered him a bribe that he accepted during his 10 years with the EFCC to come forward with evidence.
Olukoyede urged Christians to practice the same accountability they demand from government officials, stressing that corruption within religious institutions weakens public confidence in the church.
He expressed optimism that RCCG could become a leading example of transparency, ethical leadership, and accountability.
Thousands of church workers and ministers were present at the event.
“Sir Bartholomew White Ebe is a Lagos-based media personality, Music Artist, Producer, and a Relationship Coach and independent journalist. With over seven years of experience tracking political developments and cultural shifts in Nigeria, he specializes in local current affairs, grassroots politics, and community-driven reporting across Lagos State. As the founder and chief editor of Snow Multimedia Connect {SNOW TV}, he leads the editorial team to deliver verified, high-impact stories to digital audiences.”
Email: snowmediaconnect@gmail.com
