The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has clarified that his decision not to employ female secretaries is a personal precaution to avoid temptation, and not an act of gender discrimination.

In a viral video, Adeboye explained that he adopted this policy early in his ministry to prevent situations where he might be alone with a female secretary, especially late at night. He stressed that such scenarios could create risks or temptations, and that his decision is a safeguard to maintain integrity in his ministry.

He emphasized that his stance does not reflect distrust or a lack of capability in women, but rather is about protecting himself from potentially compromising situations.

Recalling past experiences, Adeboye said he previously had a female secretary who was a committed Christian. However, he noted that even with good intentions, certain circumstances could become awkward or challenging:

“From the moment I got to this campground, and realized I’d often be working late into the night, I stopped employing female secretaries. Some people think it is gender discrimination. I know myself and the potential dangers of being left alone at night with people of the opposite sex.

“My last secretary was a wonderful child of God, but imagine after a long day, everyone has gone, it’s 2 AM, and she comes in to ask if I need a cup of tea to relax. That’s exactly the kind of situation I wanted to avoid.”

Adeboye stressed that his policy is about personal discipline and caution, not about judging the trustworthiness or abilities of women.