By Deborah Akpede
Lagos, Jan. 5, 2026
The Lagos State Police Command has taken a significant step in a high-profile case, formally inviting Pastor Chris Okafor, the Senior Pastor of the Mountain of Liberation and Miracles Ministries, for questioning over allegations of multiple rape and other sexual offences. This development marks a critical juncture in a case that sits at the volatile intersection of faith, power, and criminal justice in Nigeria.
Confirming the action in a detailed statement on Sunday evening, the command’s spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, outlined the procedural measures now in motion. The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olohundare Jimoh, has specifically directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to lead a thorough investigation. This underscores the gravity with which the police are treating the allegations, which have been classified as “capital offences and other serious crimes.”
“The suspect has been formally served with an invitation letter through his legal representative and is expected to cooperate fully with investigators at the SCID, Panti,” Adebisi stated. The emphasis on formal service via legal counsel highlights the procedural care being taken, likely due to the suspect’s public profile and the potential for legal complexities.
Beyond the invitation, CP Jimoh’s orders reveal a victim-centric approach, a notable and essential protocol in sexual offence cases. He has mandated “immediate and full security coverage for alleged victims” and urged them to come forward to report at the SCID. This is crucial in a societal context where victims of sexual violence, particularly those alleging abuse by powerful figures, often face intimidation, stigma, and disbelief. Adebisi reinforced this, assuring that “the identities of victims and witnesses would be kept strictly confidential and adequately protected throughout the investigation.”
The spokesperson also made a public appeal for information, asking anyone with credible evidence to contact the SCID directly or through the Police Public Relations Department. She concluded with a firm assurance of a “professional, transparent, and unbiased” investigation conducted “in line with the laws of the land.”
Deeper Context and Implications:
This case is not occurring in a vacuum. It emerges against a backdrop of growing scrutiny on some charismatic religious leaders in Nigeria, where megachurches wield significant social and financial influence. Allegations of sexual misconduct by clergy have surfaced periodically, but formal police investigation and public invitation at this level remain relatively rare, often due to a combination of victim fear, community pressure, and the immense influence of the accused.
The police’s stated commitment to transparency and victim protection will be under intense public scrutiny. Their ability to conduct an unimpeded investigation, regardless of the pastor’s stature, will be a test of institutional integrity. Furthermore, this case highlights the evolving, if still challenging, pathway for survivors to seek justice through official channels, even when alleging crimes against powerful individuals.
The coming days will reveal whether Pastor Okafor complies with the invitation and how the investigation unfolds. The outcome will resonate far beyond this single case, potentially setting a precedent for how similar allegations against high-profile personalities are handled by law enforcement in the future.
Edited by Sandra Umeh
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