The Rivers State Police Command has arrested the presiding Pastor of a church, Joseph Onyeibor Ifediorah, aged 41, following a video circulating on social media which showed the dehumanisation of children within a church setting.
Confirming this in a statement on Wednesday, August 13, the Command’s spokeswoman, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, said that preliminary investigations revealed how Pastor Ifediorah allegedly organised a three-day programme for children in his church, purportedly for “spiritual cleansing,” claiming to have been inspired by the Holy Spirit.
“Upon receiving this information, operatives from the Rivers State Police Command, through coordinated intelligence, arrested the pastor and several church members at the scene.
“A thorough investigation is currently underway to unravel the circumstances surrounding this incident. Further updates will be made public as more information becomes available,” the PPRO stated.
Commenting on the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga A. Adepoju urged the public to remain calm and peaceful while the investigation is ongoing.
CP Adepoju enjoined members of the public to report any suspicious activities or concerns to the nearest police station or other security agencies.
He reiterated the Command’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens, particularly vulnerable ones such as minors.
The police boss said that the Command would continue to work tirelessly to address any issue that might compromise the security and dignity of individuals within the state.
