LAGOS, Nigeria — TikTok content creator Olumide Ogunsanwo, popularly known as SeaKing, has regained his freedom from police custody following his arrest over alleged cyberbullying of Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).
The social media influencer was taken into custody in connection with comments he made during a live session in December 2024, which were deemed offensive towards the revered religious leader.
His release was confirmed on Monday, February 10, 2025 by activist Omoyele Sowore, who revealed that he personally signed as a surety for SeaKing’s administrative bail.
“We are pleased to confirm that Olumide Ogunsanwo @seaking303 has been released from @PoliceNG custody after our prompt rejection of the initial bail condition requiring a Level 12 or 10 civil servant, resulting in a swift agreement and release on administrative bail, signed by me,” Sowore wrote on X (formerly Twitter), posting a picture of SeaKing smiling inside a vehicle.
Pastor Adeboye Calls for Release, Then RCCG Backtracks
Pastor Adeboye had publicly addressed SeaKing’s arrest during the RCCG’s February Holy Ghost Service at the church’s massive auditorium in Simawa, Ogun State.
In a sermon, the cleric suggested that the TikToker was merely fulfilling prophecy, referencing divine revelations about an increase in mockery towards Christian leaders.
“I heard that there was someone who lambasted me thoroughly because I asked my people to fast and pray for 100 days. I did not ask him to fast. I was only talking to my children,” Pastor Adeboye said.
“I was told that some people are so angry and they went and arrested him. Release him! He is fulfilling prophecy,” he added.
However, in an unexpected turn, RCCG later retracted Adeboye’s remarks, clarifying that the church would allow the legal process to proceed.
In a statement released by the Public Relations Unit of the Office of the Principal Executive Assistant, RCCG Worldwide, the church emphasised the need for due process in addressing the issue.
“Recently, a video has been circulating in which Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye appeared to call for the release of Seaking303. However, after carefully reviewing the situation and the concerns raised over potentially defamatory content in earlier videos, it has become necessary to allow the legal process to take its full course,” the statement read.
The church also acknowledged a formal complaint filed by the Concerned Christian Youth Forum on behalf of a group known as the Fathers of Faith, which includes Pastor Adeboye.
While affirming its commitment to love, reconciliation, and peace, RCCG warned against cyberbullying and defamatory remarks directed at its leadership, noting that “the rule of law must be respected at all times.”
A Case of Cyberbullying or Freedom of Speech?
SeaKing’s arrest has sparked debate about the limits of free speech in Nigeria, particularly concerning religious leaders.
Supporters argue that he was exercising his right to critique public figures, while critics contend that his remarks were offensive and crossed legal boundaries.
With RCCG now urging a thorough legal investigation, the case could set a precedent for how social media influencers engage with religious and public figures in the digital age.
