Apostle Sam Adegoke of Elijah Generation Church in Akure, Ondo State, has apologised to women he had sexual relationships with before getting married.
The recently married pastor said he deeply regrets his past actions and has stepped away from public ministry and social media to reflect, seek counsel and make amends.
In a statement released on Monday, Adegoke also apologised to his wife, family, church members, colleagues and others who trusted him as a spiritual leader.
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 making excuses because the relationships happened before his marriage. He added that he had been seeking God, receiving pastoral and professional counselling and 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.
He said his withdrawal from public ministry was part of efforts to change his conduct and accept accountability.
“I will therefore continue to submit myself to appropriate spiritual, pastoral, and professional accountability throughout this process,” he said.
Adegoke also asked the public to pray for him as he works to face his actions, make amends where necessary and seek genuine transformation.
“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.”
Meanwhile, Adegoke and his wife have disabled comments on their respective Instagram accounts following the development.
