RCCG addresses SeaKing's arrest, says legal process will take its course

• The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has issued a statement about the arrest of Olumide Ogunsanwo, popularly known as SeaKing, a popular TikToker
• Following his arrest for allegedly defaming Pastor Adeboye, the statement revealed that the matter has been left for the court of law
• Mixed reactions trailed the RCCG’s stance on Adeboye’s call for Sea King’s release and the defamatory statements made in the controversial video

The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has officially addressed the recent arrest of popular TikToker, SeaKing, who allegedly made defamatory statements against the church's General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adeboye.

In a surprising turn of events, Pastor Adeboye initially intervened in the matter, requesting Seakng's release and distancing himself from the arrest. This move sparked widespread speculation about the church's involvement in his arrest.

However, the RCCG's public relations team released a statement, clarifying the church's stance on the issue. According to the statement, the church would allow the law to take its course, following a thorough review of the viral video containing SeaKing's alleged defamatory statements.

Hours after Pastor Adeboye ordered Sea King’s arrest, RCCG’s PR took to their official Instagram page to say that they had decided to allow the law to take its due course. 

The statement read:

“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 ealier 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.

“It is important 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, especially 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 cul-ture 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 construc-tive and respectful discussions, honoring those who have labored in the faith.”

SeaKing released from custody 

Following the arrest of the TikToker SeaKing, he has been released from police custody. 

Omoyele Sowore helped facilitate administrative bail after rejecting initial conditions that required a high-level civil servant as a signatory.

In a shared video, he stated; “SeaKing is now a free man and he will soon be joining his family. We urge those that brought him to Abuja to also pay for his ticket to go back to Lagos.”

Before this, Pastor Adeboye addressed the situation during a church service, stating that SeaKing was merely fulfilling prophecy, acknowledging that mockers would become more active. He clarified that his earlier remarks about fasting were directed only at his congregation and not to the TikTok personality.

Nigerians react to RCCG’s statement 

The RCCG's decision to let the law handle the matter has sparked mixed reactions from the public, with some praising the church's commitment to upholding the law, while others have expressed concerns about the potential implications of SeaKing's arrest on free speech.

Here are some reactions below;

@Lash_gee commented: “God bless RCCG.” 

@Eddie.oluwa commented: “Very good 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾. I love this.”

@jumregant commented: Very Good. It's the disrespect for me someone old enough to be your daddy, No fear or what so ever. He will learn the hard way. “

@tcash. commented; “This Nigga Dey funny me...no worry your secrets will open one day I can bet that already.... lol enjoy your time my guy.”

@ajphotography commented: “Left to me, Id actualy Love it if Daddy decides to discipline him, where was this audacity in the days where there was no social media, its just so sad.”

@iamakinwumi.a commented; “Nice I guess he should have a strong lawyer to stand for him this time because if he did not the lord be with him.”

@ms.pearliecommented: “Genesis 12:3

And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee; and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.

LOVE YOU SO MUCH DADDY G.O.”

#EndBadGovernance: Netizens share mixed feelings over annual RCCG’s prayer walk

Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye organised the church's annual prayer walk in the Redemption camp. 

While many youths and activists were not having it because of the ongoing nationwide protest, they opined that Pastor Adeboye could have redirected the crowd to join the #Endbadgovernance protest.