The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ola Olukoyede, has disclosed that the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, ordered the return of billions of naira donated to a church project after the funds were discovered to have originated from criminal activities.
Olukoyede said Adeboye directed that the money be refunded within 24 hours after the church was informed of the source of the donation.
The EFCC chairman made the disclosure on Saturday, November 7, while addressing RCCG workers during a meeting organised ahead of the church’s annual Holy Ghost Congress.
According to Church Times Nigeria, which reported the development, Adeboye had invited the anti-graft agency’s chairman to speak on financial accountability and the importance of maintaining transparent financial records in religious organisations.
Recounting the incident, Olukoyede said a church member had contributed billions of naira towards an RCCG project, but subsequent investigations established that the funds were proceeds of financial crime.
He praised Adeboye for taking immediate action to return the money after the church received the information.
The EFCC boss, however, did not reveal the identity of the donor, the particular church project involved or the exact amount refunded.
Olukoyede expressed concern over the involvement of some religious leaders in financial misconduct, warning church workers against accepting questionable donations or engaging in fraudulent financial dealings.
He also cited another incident involving a church allegedly connected to a Ponzi scheme, saying its leader initially resisted the commission’s intervention but later refunded a substantial amount following threats of legal action.
The anti-graft agency chief maintained that religious status would not protect anyone involved in financial crimes, stressing that the commission would pursue offenders regardless of their faith or position.
He further cautioned church members against excessive materialism, unhealthy competition and leadership tussles, warning that such practices could encourage corruption within religious institutions.
Olukoyede also raised concerns over allegations that some individuals were offering inducements to secure leadership positions within the RCCG.
He urged pastors and church administrators to properly investigate the sources of financial contributions before accepting donations for church projects.
Responding, Adeboye reportedly assured the EFCC chairman that the church would not shield anyone found guilty of financial wrongdoing.
The cleric also urged pastors under his leadership to maintain accurate financial records and ensure transparency in their dealings.
