Pastor Enoch Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has publicly called for the release of Nigerian TikToker Olumide Ogunsanwo, widely known as Seaking.
The social media personality has been detained since December 2024 on charges of treason, cyberstalking, and inciting public unrest.
Adeboye addressed the controversy during a recent sermon, framing Seaking’s actions as part of a divine plan rather than a personal affront.
The Arrest
Seaking’s legal troubles began after he posted a video criticizing President Bola Tinubu, Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.
Though initially granted bail, he was rearrested in late December outside a Lagos magistrate court.
Reports indicate this second arrest stemmed from a separate TikTok video targeting Adeboye himself. In the now-viral clip, Seaking condemned the cleric’s call for RCCG members to undertake a 100-day fast, labeling the directive “foolish” and sparking widespread backlash online.
Addressing thousands at the Holy Ghost Congress, Adeboye acknowledged Seaking’s insults but dismissed personal offense.
“God forewarned me that critics would react this way when I announced the fast,” he stated, referencing biblical precedents where spiritual commitments attracted opposition.
The 81-year-old leader, who oversees one of Nigeria’s largest Pentecostal denominations, emphasized that Seaking’s detention contradicted his theological interpretation.
“Release him. He is fulfilling prophecy,” Adeboye insisted, urging compassion over retribution.
This incident highlights growing tensions between Nigeria’s cybercrime laws and freedom of expression.
While the Cybercrimes Act 2015 permits arrests for online defamation, Adeboye’s stance introduces a faith-based perspective to the debate.
His response aligns with RCCG’s historical emphasis on forgiveness, echoing teachings from Matthew 5:44 about loving critics.
However, legal experts like Abuja-based attorney Chioma Nwosu caution that “prophetic interpretations cannot override due process” in ongoing cases.
The case has reignited discussions about religious influence in Nigerian civil matters. As of January 2025, Seaking remains in custody despite Adeboye’s appeal, with human rights groups like Amnesty International Nigeria monitoring developments.
For Adeboye’s congregation, the episode reinforces a recurring theme in his sermons: adversity often precedes spiritual breakthroughs.
“For my children,” he ended, “glory lies ahead.”