The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, has responded to growing public debate over the pastoral status of Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, reaffirming that she remains a fully recognised minister within the church.
Speaking during a recent church programme, Adeboye clarified that Mrs Tinubu was duly ordained over a decade ago, long before her husband became President of Nigeria. He stressed that her appointment followed established RCCG procedures and has remained valid since then.
According to him, there has been no breach of doctrine, conduct, or church policy that would justify any disciplinary action or removal. He added that the church leadership will not yield to external pressure or public opinion on internal spiritual matters.
The clarification comes amid renewed public discussion on social media and in political circles questioning whether individuals in high political positions should retain ministerial roles within large religious organisations. However, RCCG leadership maintains that ordination is strictly a spiritual process governed by internal rules, not political considerations.
Adeboye also emphasised that RCCG operates as a global denomination with members across different political and social backgrounds. He noted that the church remains open to all believers, regardless of political affiliation, and does not function as an extension of any political party.
He further explained that ministers in the church are expected to follow due process before ordination, and once this is completed, their status remains valid unless there is a clear violation of doctrine or misconduct.
In his remarks, Adeboye reiterated that the church would not be influenced by external opinions or controversies when it comes to spiritual governance. His comments were interpreted by many observers as a firm stance on the independence of church authority from political debate.
The First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, was ordained as an Assistant Pastor in RCCG several years ago and has since remained involved in church-related responsibilities alongside her public service role.
The issue has generated mixed reactions among Nigerians, particularly on social media, where opinions remain divided between those who support the church’s decision and those who believe public office holders should step aside from active pastoral roles.
Despite the controversy, RCCG leadership insists its decision is rooted in doctrine and established church order.
As discussions continue, the church has maintained its position that Oluremi Tinubu’s pastoral status remains unchanged and will continue as long as she meets the spiritual and doctrinal expectations of the denomination.
