Pastor Adeboye retracts call for SeaKing’s release, says Law must take its course

Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has withdrawn his earlier appeal for the release of detained TikToker Olumide Ogunsanwo, popularly known as ‘SeaKing,’ who is facing allegations of cyberbullying.

SeaKing was re-arrested by the Nigerian police in Lagos while attending a separate trial at a magistrate’s court. His latest detention is linked to his controversial remarks about Pastor Adeboye’s directive for a 100-day fast, which he had mocked in a viral TikTok video in December 2024, calling it “stupid.”

Following SeaKing’s criticism, the Concerned Christian Youth Forum petitioned the Lagos State Police Command, leading to his arrest last week. However, during the RCCG’s February Holy Ghost Service, Pastor Adeboye distanced himself from the TikToker’s arrest, stating that he had not ordered it and calling for his release.

In a new twist, the RCCG issued a statement on Monday, clarifying that it would not interfere with the ongoing police investigation and emphasizing that the law should take its course. The statement, signed by the church’s Public Relations Unit and the Office of the Principal Executive Assistant to the General Overseer, highlighted the need for due process.

The church stated:

“There has been a video in circulation calling for the release of Olumide Ogunsanwo (Seaking303) by Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye. However, it is important to note that the earlier videos containing potentially defamatory statements had not been thoroughly examined. Upon careful review of the concerns raised regarding certain statements and allegations, it has become necessary to allow the law to take its course.”

The statement further clarified that RCCG would not obstruct the investigation, especially since an official complaint had been filed by the Concerned Christian Youth Forum on behalf of leading Christian figures, including Pastor 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.”

The RCCG also urged for respectful discussions, warning against defamatory statements directed at religious leaders.