The Rivers State Police Command has arrested a 41-year-old pastor, Ifediorah Onyeibor Joseph, after a viral video showed him flogging minors and subjecting them to degrading treatment during a church programme.
According to police spokesperson SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the arrest followed intelligence reports about the disturbing incident, which occurred during a three-day programme the pastor claimed was for “spiritual cleaning” and “inspired by the Holy Spirit.”
Operatives stormed the church premises, arrested the pastor along with several congregation members, and rescued the children, who are now under protective care.
“Upon receiving the 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 underway to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident,” Iringe-Koko said.
She added that Commissioner of Police CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju has assured the public that protecting the safety and dignity of vulnerable persons—especially minors—remains a top priority for the Command.
The CP urged residents to report suspicious activities or cases of abuse to the nearest police station or relevant security agency.