Mathew Amaechi
A prominent pastor linked to one of Nigeria’s largest Pentecostal churches was arrested for the alleged defilement of a 10-year-old girl in Ihuaje community, Ahoada East Local Government Area. The suspect, identified only as “Lucky,” faces accusations of serial sexual abuse and bribing the victim with ₦500 after each assault to ensure her silence.
The crime came to light last Saturday when the girl’s parents visited her at the pastor’s residence. She disclosed the prolonged abuse, revealing that the pastor—who also served as her guardian—had been assaulting her and paying her hush money. The parents immediately took her to a hospital for a medical examination.
Local security force OSPAC (Organised Security Planning and Advisory Committee), led by Commander Precious Ihuruzu and supervised by the Council’s Chief Security Officer, Hector Ekeakita, arrested the pastor. He was handed over to the Ahoada Police Division.
The pastor managed a branch of a Lagos-headquartered Pentecostal church in Ihuaje and owned a private school in the community.
Activist Denis Otobo of the Association Against Child Sexual and Gender-Based Violence spearheaded the case follow-up after a tip from the Ministry of Health’s gender desk. He collaborated with police, including the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ahoada, who ensured the pastor’s swift detention. Otobo commended the DPO, Ekeakita, and rights group leader Prince Wiro (Centre for Basic Rights) for their roles. He urged police to pursue thorough investigation and diligent prosecution if evidence confirms guilt.
Rivers State Police Spokesperson SP Grace Iringe-Koko confirmed the arrest, stating, “We received a complaint from the parents and investigations are ongoing.”
This incident reflects a disturbing trend. In 2022, Pastor Jude Ohanenye was remanded in Rivers State for defiling an 8-year-old, with medical reports confirming vaginal injuries. In 2023, a pastor in Abia State was arrested for raping a 13-year-old domestic worker, while another in Rivers allegedly impregnated a 15-year-old.
The suspect remains in police custody pending further investigation. Child rights advocates stress the need for rigorous legal action to deter similar crimes and protect minors from trusted community figures.