Former RCCG campus pastor Jimmy Adekoya’s same-sex marriage in the U.S. has sparked controversy among Nigerians. While LGBTQ+ supporters commend his boldness, many religious conservatives criticize him. His public defense of homosexuality adds to the heated debate, highlighting Nigeria’s firm stance against LGBTQ+ rights.
Jimmy Adekoya, a former leader of the Redeemed Christian Fellowship (RCF) at Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), has ignited widespread reactions after tying the knot with his same-sex partner, Seamus O'Donovan, in the United States.
The news of Adekoya's wedding surfaced online alongside photos of the couple celebrating their union. Adekoya, who pursued a Master’s degree in Medical Microbiology in the UK, was once known for his active role in ministry but has since publicly embraced his LGBTQ+ identity.
The wedding announcement, made on Valentine’s Day through Adekoya’s social media, was met with a wave of mixed reactions. While LGBTQ+ advocates hailed his decision as a bold step toward authenticity, many Nigerians, particularly from religious circles, expressed strong disapproval. Some accused him of abandoning his faith, while others speculated that financial motives or immigration benefits might have influenced his decision.
Adekoya defended his stance in an Instagram post, emphasizing that being gay was not a sin and calling for an end to religious-based homophobia. Some social media users praised his courage, while others cited biblical references condemning homosexuality.
Religious leaders have yet to issue official statements, but the debate continues to dominate discussions online, reflecting Nigeria’s deeply conservative stance on LGBTQ+ rights compared to the legal recognition of same-sex marriage in the U.S.
