Rivers Police Detain Pastor Amid Allegations of Child Abuse

The Rivers State Police Command has arrested a 41-year-old pastor, Ifediorah Onyeibor Joseph, on charges of subjecting minors to dehumanizing treatment during a three-day church program. The arrest followed a swift police response to a disturbing video that had gone viral on social media.

According to a statement from the police spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the video allegedly showed children undergoing inhumane treatment at a church run by Pastor Joseph. The pastor had reportedly organized the program for “spiritual cleaning,” which he claimed was inspired by the Holy Spirit.

Acting on a tip-off, police operatives from the Rivers State Police Command stormed the church premises, arresting Pastor Joseph and several members of his congregation. The minors were rescued from the scene and have since been placed under protective care to ensure their safety and well-being.

“Upon receiving the information, operatives from the Rivers State Police Command, through coordinated intelligence, arrested the pastor and several church members at the scene,” Iringe-Koko said. “A thorough investigation is underway to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident.”

The Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, has urged the public to remain calm, assuring them that the safety and dignity of vulnerable persons, especially minors, remain a top priority for the Command. He also called on residents to report any suspicious activities or cases of abuse to the nearest police station, reaffirming the Command’s commitment to protecting citizens.