Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong has called on Pastor Enoch Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), to step down, accusing him of making statements that undermine Christianity.
Effiong’s comments came in response to a viral video where Pastor Adeboye claimed his prayers prevented the Nigerian Naira from depreciating to ₦10,000 against the U.S. dollar. Adeboye also suggested that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration was working hard to stabilize Nigeria’s economy, dismissing allegations that the government was responsible for the economic downturn.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Effiong criticized Adeboye for supporting the current administration, labeling his remarks as “a mockery of the body of Christ.” The lawyer stated:
“Pastor Enoch Adeboye should retire and go home. His controversial statements offend the sensibilities of right-thinking members of society. It’s always better to know when to leave the stage.”
Effiong argued that religious leaders like Adeboye have contributed to public disillusionment with the church. He claimed many Nigerians have stopped attending church due to the “hypocrisy and connivance” of such leaders.
The lawyer also refuted Adeboye’s assertion about the influence of prayers on the Naira’s exchange rate. “Exchange rates are determined by economic policies, not prayers,” Effiong said. He accused the Tinubu administration of failing to address corruption in the oil sector and noted that the government had continued paying fuel subsidies despite earlier promises to end them.
Effiong added, “Some of the most corrupt and evil politicians in our country today are disciples and followers of Pastor Adeboye. After decades of prayers for Nigeria, things have only worsened. It’s either his prayers are not working or God isn’t listening.”
Effiong’s remarks reflect growing frustration among some Nigerians with religious leaders’ involvement in politics. Critics argue that aligning with controversial governments undermines the credibility of spiritual institutions.
Pastor Adeboye has not yet responded to the criticism. However, his comments continue to generate heated discussions across social media and public forums.
