Adeboye’s divine takeover: Viral Photo of RCCG Pastor on Royal throne sparks outrage

A social media storm has erupted following the release of a viral picture featuring Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), seated on the throne of Oba Francis Olusola Alao, the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon in Oyo State. The controversial image, taken during Adeboye’s evangelism programme, ‘Let’s go afishing,’ in Orile-Igbon, has ignited a wave of reactions and criticisms from Nigerians online.

In the eye-catching photo, Adeboye is seen comfortably occupying the royal chair, prominently displaying the name of the Orile-Igbon king. The images were disseminated by the RCCG PR, the public relations media team of the church, across various social media platforms, intensifying the public outcry.

The incident has raised eyebrows and sparked a debate about the appropriateness of a religious leader occupying a traditional ruler’s throne. Social media users are divided, with some expressing outrage at what they perceive as a breach of cultural and traditional norms, while others argue that it might have been a gesture of respect or a symbolic act during the evangelical event.

As the images continue to circulate, the online community remains abuzz with discussions, critiques, and speculation about the implications of this unexpected blending of religious and traditional symbols. Adeboye’s divine takeover of the royal throne has thrust the issue into the spotlight, fueling a digital discourse on the boundaries between spirituality and cultural respect.

Nigerians’ reaction on X and Facebook

The viral picture has continued to generate mixed reactions online. While many described the act as a disrespect to the throne, others think he must have been invited by the king himself to sit on the throne.

@UnitedAfrica67 on X ”A mere cleric insulted the whole of Yoruba race, culture and traditions Adeboye deserves the insult since he doesn’t know and respect himself. Jesus in the Bible never disrespected any king and monarchs the world over even in Europe are not messed with. This sacrilege must be stopped.’’

Adeyeye Adeoti on Facebook said: “This is what happened when politicians instead of Ifa chose our traditional rulers, most of them don’t know their right from their left”.

Meanwhile, @theRichayo said, “Why are you castigating him? I believe that he wouldn’t just go to that seat, he must have been offered.’’

@BolarinwaAjao said, “I was at the program. The king insisted, what should he do? In fact, he wanted to leave as soon as possible. He had to sit for a while.’’

@animolenikun on X said ‘‘It is either Bàbá Adeboye is ignorant of what Ọba stool is or he’s arrogantly flexing muscle based on the fact that he owns the largest congregation of the àgùntàns. The Biblical Prophets didn’t mess with the thrones of their Kings. And shame on the fools with the crown.’’

@abeegunde1 on X said ‘‘It’s unfortunate that an elder, who should know better about the Yoruba culture, customs and tradition, keeps insulting our sensibility in order to promote his business and his foreign religion over our own. While we have tolerated their insult enough, it’s time we stand up against any form of insult to our heritage. Adeboye should be warned to stop his arrogance on our traditional rulers or have us to contend with.’’