- the command has a duty to investigate every report brought to its attention
- The police chief also clarified the gravity of rape allegations under Nigerian law, describing it as a serious criminal offence
- He added that the situation eventually changed when the pastor appeared before investigators on Tuesday
The Lagos State Police Command has assured the public that allegations of rape and murder levelled against popular cleric, Pastor Chris Okafor, will be thoroughly examined in line with the law.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Olohundare Jimoh, made this known on Thursday while speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, stressing that all accusations circulating online against the founder of the Mountain Liberation and Miracle Ministry would not be ignored.
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According to the police boss, although many of the claims emerged from social media, the command has a duty to investigate every report brought to its attention.
He explained that the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Panti, was instructed to invite the cleric for questioning, but the invitation was initially not honoured.
Jimoh disclosed that a formal petition had also been submitted to the Assistant Inspector General of Police overseeing Zone 2, further necessitating police action.
He said efforts were made to secure Pastor Okafor’s cooperation after his legal representative indicated he would present himself, but this did not happen as promised.
Following the delay, the commissioner said the police moved to enforce compliance, noting that certain offences, including rape, do not require a warrant before an arrest can be made.
He added that the situation eventually changed when the pastor appeared before investigators on Tuesday, where statements were taken.
The police chief also clarified the gravity of rape allegations under Nigerian law, describing it as a serious criminal offence that can attract severe punishment, including life imprisonment, depending on the court’s findings and the degree of involvement.
The allegations are reportedly linked to claims involving actress Doris Ogala, whom Pastor Okafor is said to have had a personal relationship with, an issue now under police scrutiny as investigations continue.
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