Pastor Enoch Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), disclosed Sunday that one of his pastors abroad was arrested for addressing an audience as “ladies and gentlemen,” a greeting deemed discriminatory for excluding other gender identities.
Speaking during the church’s monthly thanksgiving service at RCCG’s Throne of Grace in Lagos, Adeboye said the incident occurred when complainants challenged the traditional greeting for failing to acknowledge all gender identities recognized in that culture. “Some people reported him for discrimination, asking, ‘What about those who are neither ladies nor gentlemen?'” Adeboye told his congregation.
The announcement came during his sermon titled “My father’s house,” which was broadcast to all RCCG parishes. Adeboye cited the incident as evidence of what he views as declining moral values worldwide, characterizing it as a sign of “end times.”
The religious leader, who has recently taken public stances on cultural issues affecting his church, also addressed other concerns during the service. In August, during RCCG’s 72nd annual convention, Adeboye notably criticized certain fashion choices among church workers, including men wearing braided hair and women using false eyelashes and heavy makeup.
The convention, themed “Heaven,” was held at The Redemption City in Ogun State, where Adeboye urged his followers to maintain what he considers traditional Christian values. “Those of you already in Christ, take this matter seriously. Do not let anyone weaken your stand,” he advised his congregation.
