The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has revealed how the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, directed the return of billions of naira linked to financial crime after the money was traced to a church project.
Olukoyede disclosed that Adeboye instructed church officials to refund the suspicious donations within 24 hours of being informed about their source.
The EFCC chairman made the revelation on Saturday, November 7, 2026, while addressing RCCG ministers and workers during a gathering ahead of the church’s annual Holy Ghost Congress.
How EFCC Traced Billions to RCCG Project
According to Olukoyede, an investigation into financial misconduct involving an individual uncovered transactions connected to projects and accounts associated with the church.
The funds, reportedly running into billions of naira, were linked to suspected criminal activities.
He explained that the findings were brought to Adeboye’s attention, prompting the respected cleric to summon relevant church officials and demand the immediate return of the money.
The EFCC chairman commended Adeboye’s response, presenting his decision as an example of the financial accountability expected of religious organisations.
Although the precise amount involved and the donor’s identity were not publicly disclosed, Olukoyede confirmed that the money was eventually returned to government coffers.
EFCC Warns Churches Against Suspicious Donations
Speaking on financial integrity within religious institutions, Olukoyede expressed concern over allegations of corruption, questionable donations and financial irregularities involving some church leaders.
He warned that religious institutions could unknowingly become channels for laundering proceeds of criminal activities when adequate financial checks are ignored.
The anti-corruption chief urged pastors and church administrators to establish proper accountability systems and exercise greater caution when accepting substantial donations.
He stressed that religious leadership does not exempt anyone from investigation or prosecution where financial wrongdoing is established.
EFCC Boss Exposes Another Church’s Alleged Ponzi Scheme Links
Olukoyede also described a separate investigation involving another church allegedly connected to funds generated through a Ponzi scheme.
According to him, the leadership of the affected church initially resisted efforts to recover the questionable money.
However, the funds were eventually refunded after the commission indicated its readiness to pursue legal proceedings.
He cited the incident while emphasising the importance of cooperation with anti-corruption authorities and the consequences of obstructing financial investigations.
Adeboye Says RCCG Will Not Protect Corrupt Members
Responding to the concerns raised by the EFCC chairman, Pastor Adeboye reaffirmed the church’s commitment to financial discipline and transparency.
He maintained that RCCG would not shield any member or leader found to have engaged in financial misconduct.
Adeboye also urged pastors and church administrators to maintain accurate financial records and ensure that church activities comply with ethical standards.
The development has brought renewed attention to financial accountability in religious organisations and the need to scrutinise the sources of major donations.
