EFCC chair: How Adeboye ordered return of illicit billions linked to church project

The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has revealed how a huge sum of money running into billions of naira – proceeds of financial crime – was traced to a project of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

The EFCC boss, however, commended the RCCG General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, for ordering the immediate refund of the money.

Olukoyede made the disclosure while addressing church workers during a meeting held in the early hours of Saturday, November 7, 2026, ahead of the RCCG’s annual Holy Ghost Congress.

The sensitisation programme was organised to prepare workers for the congress, with Pastor Adeboye inviting the EFCC chairman to speak on financial integrity, accountability and the importance of maintaining transparent financial records in the church.

Olukoyede said the anti-graft agency regularly receives petitions involving church leaders accused of financial crimes, including allegations surrounding contracts awarded for church projects.

The EFCC chairman, an ordained pastor, said such cases were often embarrassing and underscored the need for church workers and leaders to avoid the pursuit of illicit wealth and reject donations from questionable sources.

Olukoyede recounted an incident in which a church member donated billions of naira to an RCCG project, only for investigations to reveal that the money was proceeds of crime.

According to him, immediately the church was notified, Pastor Adeboye directed that the entire donation be returned within 24 hours.

Olukoyede commended Adeboye for his swift response, describing it as an example of integrity and responsible leadership.

He contrasted the incident with another case involving a different church allegedly linked to a Ponzi scheme.

Olukoyede disclosed that the church leader initially resisted the commission’s intervention and only agreed to refund the funds after it became clear that the EFCC was ready to institute criminal proceedings.

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The EFCC boss warned that the commission would not spare anyone involved in financial crimes, regardless of status or religious affiliation.

He also cautioned church members against excessive materialism, unhealthy competition and leadership struggles, saying such behaviours often create fertile ground for corruption.

Olukoyede disclosed that the commission had received reports of individuals allegedly bribing their way into leadership positions within the RCCG, warning that such practices could expose those involved to criminal conduct.

Olukoyede further advised pastors to exercise due diligence before accepting donations by verifying the legitimate sources of donors’ wealth.

Responding, Pastor Adeboye assured the EFCC chairman that the church would not shield any member or leader found wanting in matters of financial misconduct.

He also directed all RCCG pastors to ensure that their financial records remain transparent, accountable and free from any trace of corruption.