Newlywed pastor steps back from ministry over past affairs

Apostle Sam Adegoke of Elijah Generation Church, Akure, Ondo, has stepped back from public ministry to reflect on his past affairs.

He also apologised to women with whom he had sexual relationships before his marriage

Adegoke, who recently got married, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday.

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The cleric said he took full responsibility for his past conduct and apologised to the women involved, his wife, family, church members, colleagues and others who had trusted him as a spiritual leader.

According to him, he had engaged in sexual relationships with women before his marriage, describing the conduct as wrong and contrary to the standards he was expected to uphold as a Christian and minister.

He said, “Over the past few weeks, I have stepped back from public ministry and social media to reflect, seek counsel, and honestly address matters from my past.

“Before I was married, I was involved in sexual relationships with women that I deeply regret. Although these events occurred before my marriage, I acknowledge that my actions were wrong and fell short of the standards of holiness, integrity, and self-control I am called to uphold as a Christian and minister of the Gospel.”

Adegoke said he was not seeking to justify his actions on the grounds that they occurred before his marriage, adding that he had been seeking spiritual guidance, pastoral and professional counselling while examining his conduct.

“I take full responsibility for my actions and sincerely apologise to the women involved for any hurt, disappointment, or harm I may have caused.

“I also apologise to my wife, my family, my church, my colleagues, and everyone who has trusted me and looked to me for spiritual leadership,” he said.

The pastor said his decision to withdraw from public ministry was part of efforts to confront his past conduct and make necessary changes.

He said genuine repentance required changed conduct, accountability and a willingness to accept the consequences of one’s actions.

“I will therefore continue to submit myself to appropriate spiritual, pastoral, and professional accountability throughout this process,” he said.

Adegoke also appealed to members of the public to pray for him, saying he needed the humility and courage to confront his past, make amends where necessary, and protect those affected.

“I ask for prayer, not that my actions would be excused, but that I would have the humility and courage to face them honestly, make amends where appropriate, protect those affected, and allow God to produce genuine transformation in my life,” he said.

He added, “I am deeply sorry and remain committed to walking forward with greater integrity, responsibility, and accountability.”

Following the development, Adegoke and his wife have disabled comments on their respective Instagram accounts.