The Rivers State Police Command has taken swift action in response to a distressing online video circulating on social media, depicting the dehumanisation of minors within a church setting.
The presiding pastor of the church, Pastor Ifediorah Joseph, a 41-year-old man, has been arrested in connection with the incident.
The Police Spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the arrest in a statement on Wednesday Port Harcourt.
She said, ”According to preliminary investigations, Pastor Ifediorah allegedly organised a three-day programme for children in his church, purportedly for “spiritual cleaning,” claiming to have been inspired by the Holy Spirit.
”The programme involved physical abuse and humiliation of the children, with videos showing minors being flogged with palm fronds and subjected to other forms of mistreatment.
”Upon receiving the distressing video, operatives from the Rivers State Police Command, through coordinated intelligence, arrested the pastor and several church members at the scene.
”The minors involved were rescued and placed under protective care, ” the statement said.
The statement added that a thorough investigation was currently underway to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident and further updates would be made public as more information becomes available.
It assured the public that the safety and dignity of vulnerable persons, especially minors, remain a top priority for the command.
The Commissioner of Police, Rivers State, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, urged the public to remain calm and peaceful while the investigation is ongoing.
He also encouraged members of the public to report any suspicious activities or concerns to the nearest police station or security agency.
CP Adepoju reiterated the command’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens, particularly vulnerable populations such as minors.
He assured that the command would continue to work tirelessly to address any issues that might compromise the security and dignity of individuals within the state.
