The Lagos State Police Command has officially launched a criminal investigation into the senior pastor of the Mountain of Liberation and Miracles Ministries, Chris Okafor, following multiple allegations of sexual misconduct. This development marks a significant escalation in the controversy surrounding the cleric, who recently announced he was stepping away from the pulpit.
Police Commissioner Directs CID Investigation
The State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has personally directed the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Panti to commence a full-scale inquiry. This directive was confirmed by the command's spokesperson, CSP Abimbola Adebisi, on Sunday, January 4, 2026. The police action comes after initial hesitation, as the command had stated it could not act without a formal complaint from alleged victims.
However, following renewed media enquiries and direct communication with the Commissioner on the night of Saturday, January 3, CP Jimoh ordered the SCID to invite Pastor Okafor for questioning. Crucially, the commissioner authorized the investigation to proceed even in the absence of a formal petition. Investigators have been tasked with reaching out to potential witnesses and complainants to obtain statements.
Allegations and the Spark of Controversy
The scandal first erupted in December when Nollywood actress Doris Ogala publicly called out the pastor. Ogala alleged she had been in a relationship with Okafor since 2017, during which he repeatedly promised to marry her. Her allegations opened the floodgates, leading to other claims from different women, some of whom were interviewed by a YouTuber.
CSP Adebisi disclosed that she personally contacted the YouTuber to gain direct access to individuals willing to cooperate with the police probe. This move indicates the seriousness with which the police are treating the gathering of evidence.
Pastor's Retreat Amidst Growing Storm
This police intervention comes barely days after Pastor Chris Okafor announced he would be stepping aside from his ministerial duties. In a video statement, the cleric said he had not rested since getting married and declared it was time for him and his wife to go on a retreat and honeymoon. He described the period as a time for prayer and seeking God’s face, adding they would be away for one month and return in February.
The timing of his departure, coinciding with the explosion of allegations, has fueled further public discussion and skepticism. Many have questioned whether the retreat is a genuine spiritual exercise or a tactical withdrawal from the escalating situation.
Nigerians React to Police Probe
The news of the police investigation has triggered a wave of reactions from Nigerians online, highlighting the divisive nature of the scandal:
One user, ijnnaji, commented cynically: "Omo new wife go say wetin I marry," suggesting the pastor's new wife would regret her marriage.
Another, xvx_mama_la_, defended the pastor: "Make them go rest.. nothing will happen.. no body force those women get belle carry pikin for my pastor."
morrissfavour_ posed a question many are asking: "I don’t support this man, but again did he force the women? Pls is a question oooo."
beatriceokojie offered a moral perspective: "If you want to leave a woman, leave her honourably. If you are leaving a man , leave peacefully."
User segun.adegoke expressed pity for Okafor's new wife: "I pity his new wife. She just got herself scandals."
Meanwhile, jeffy_groove saw it as part of a larger trend: "More fake men of God will be exposed 2026."
The Lagos State Police Command's decision to proceed without a formal complaint underscores the growing pressure from the public and media. As the SCID begins its work, Nigerians await to see whether this investigation will lead to formal charges or become another high-profile case that fades from public view. The coming weeks are likely to unveil more details as the police gather statements from all parties involved.
