Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has reversed his earlier call for the police to release the detained Tiktoker, Olumide Ogunsanwo, aka ‘SeaKing,’ who faced accusations of cyberbullying.
Reports had previously stated that the Nigerian police in Lagos re-arrested SeaKing when he appeared for a separate trial at a magistrate’s court. His rearrest was linked to allegations of cyberbullying following Pastor Adeboye’s comments on a 100-day fast observed by church members.
In a TikTok post shared in December 2024, SeaKing criticized Adeboye for urging people to fast for 100 days for Nigeria, calling the directive “stupid.”
Upset by this post, the Concerned Christian Youth Forum, a group of Christian youth, petitioned the Lagos State Police Command, leading to SeaKing’s arrest the following week.
However, while addressing the TikToker’s rearrest during the RCCG’s February Holy Ghost service, Pastor Adeboye clarified that he did not authorize SeaKing’s arrest.
He explained that certain individuals, angered by the TikToker’s comments, made the decision to arrest him, prompting the cleric to call on the police to release SeaKing.
In a new development, RCCG issued a statement on Monday saying it would not intervene in the ongoing police investigation into the matter, emphasizing that “the law be allowed to take its course.”
The statement, released by the Public Relations Unit and signed by the Office of the Principal Executive Assistant to the General Overseer, RCCG Worldwide, on behalf of the cleric, reads: “A video calling for the release of Olumide Ogunsanwo (Seakiug303) by Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye has been circulating.
“However, it is important to note that earlier videos containing potentially defamatory statements had not been thoroughly examined. After carefully reviewing the concerns raised about certain statements and allegations, it has become necessary to let the law take its course.
“It is crucial to properly understand Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye’s statement during the Holy Ghost Service Night on Saturday regarding Olumide Ogunsanwo (Seaking303). The Church does not intend to interfere with the ongoing police investigation, particularly as there is an official complaint filed by the Concerned Christian Youth Forum against Olumide Ogunsanwo John (Seaking303) and others on behalf of the Fathers of Faith, including Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye.
“Therefore, we trust that the relevant authorities will carry out their investigations professionally and reach a just conclusion based on the law. 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.
“Furthermore, the Church encourages respectful discourse and will continue to promote a culture of honor while discouraging defamatory and disrespectful statements. Respect for spiritual leaders is a deeply held value in our faith and culture. We encourage all to engage in constructive and respectful discussions, honoring those who have labored in the faith.”
Temitope Onigbinde
January 26, 2022 at 10:14 pm
Eleyi tun deep o