Adeboye Orders Return of Illicit Donations, EFCC Chairman Confirms

Immediate Refund of Illicit Funds

Ola Olukoyede, the head of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, stated on 7 November 2026 that General Overseer Pastor Enoch Adeboye directed the prompt restitution of a significant gift to the Redeemed Christian Church of God. The donation, which had been given to a church project, was later found to have come from proceeds of financial crime. According to Olukoyede, the money was refunded within 24 hours of the church being alerted to its illicit source.

The announcement was made during a meeting organised by the RCCG for its workers ahead of the annual Holy Ghost Congress. Adeboye had invited the EFCC chairman to speak on financial propriety and the importance of maintaining transparent records. While addressing the workers, Olukoyede recounted the incident, noting that the donor’s identity, the specific project and the exact amount were not disclosed.

Background

The EFCC has been increasingly active in investigating financial misconduct involving religious institutions. The regulatory body has recently handled complaints filed against religious leaders concerning suspected monetary offenses, which encompassed dubious agreements for ecclesiastical construction. Olukoyede, who holds the status of an ordained minister, cautioned that religious institutions must prevent their organizations from being exploited to conceal or wash illegal assets.

In a separate case mentioned by the chairman, another church was linked to a Ponzi scheme. The church leader initially resisted the EFCC’s intervention but eventually refunded a large amount after the commission threatened legal action. The EFCC has stated that it will not spare anyone involved in financial crime, regardless of religious standing.

Why It Matters

The incident highlights the growing scrutiny of financial practices within religious organisations in Nigeria. By ordering the refund, Pastor Adeboye demonstrated a commitment to accountability and transparency, setting a precedent for other church leaders. The EFCC’s involvement underscores the commission’s role in enforcing financial discipline across all sectors, including religious institutions.

The case also serves as a warning to church workers and members about the risks of accepting large donations without verifying their source. Olukoyede urged pastors to investigate the provenance of donations before acceptance, stressing that materialism, unhealthy competition and leadership struggles can expose religious institutions to misconduct.

What Happens Next

The sources do not detail any further legal action or investigation into the donor or the specific project. The EFCC has reiterated its willingness to prosecute any individual involved in financial crime, regardless of religious affiliation. No additional dates or pending decisions were announced in the statements from the EFCC chairman.

The incident has prompted calls for stricter financial oversight within the RCCG and other churches, with the EFCC encouraging transparent record‑keeping and due diligence in all charitable contributions.