The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has directed the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, to commence an investigation into murder allegations linked to Chris Okafor, Senior Pastor of the Mountain of Liberation and Miracles Ministries.
The directive follows renewed public concern after screenshots and online content alleging serious criminal conduct by the cleric circulated widely on social media. The probe comes despite the absence of a formal petition from alleged victims.
Police action despite no formal complaint
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, said on Sunday that the Commissioner ordered the SCID to invite Pastor Okafor for questioning and begin preliminary inquiries.
“The CP has directed the SCID to invite the pastor for investigation, despite the fact that no one has formally come forward to report,” Adebisi said.
She added that investigators have also been instructed to identify and bring forward witnesses who can provide statements to aid the probe. Adebisi disclosed that she independently contacted a YouTuber who interviewed individuals making the murder claims, seeking direct access to potential witnesses.
Background to the controversy
The police move follows days of intense public scrutiny surrounding sexual misconduct allegations against the cleric, which first gained traction online in mid-December. As the controversy escalated, Pastor Okafor stepped aside from pastoral duties on New Year’s Day, according to earlier reports.
Among the accusers is Nollywood actress Doris Ogala, who alleged a long-term relationship with the pastor beginning in 2017. She claimed he repeatedly promised marriage before marrying another woman in December 2025. Ogala also accused him of sharing private materials and contributing to emotional and financial distress.
During a church service last Sunday, the pastor publicly apologised to Ogala, kneeling at the pulpit and acknowledging past “mistakes” while asking for forgiveness.
Legal actions and counterclaims
Ogala has since demanded ₦1 billion in damages through her lawyers, alleging threats and intimidation following her arrest and detention by police. She also claimed the pastor attempted to induce her to retract her allegations, an assertion he has not publicly addressed.
As the scandal widened, other women, including Okafor’s former wife, Bessem Okafor, made allegations ranging from infidelity and manipulation to physical abuse. These claims have further intensified calls for a thorough investigation.
While the allegations have triggered outrage online, some members of the church have publicly dismissed the claims, describing them as attempts to extort money from the cleric. They maintain that their pastor is being targeted unfairly.
Police say the investigation is preliminary and aimed at establishing whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed. The SCID is expected to conduct interviews and review materials circulating online before determining next steps.
Authorities reiterated that allegations remain unproven and urged the public to allow due process to take its course as investigations continue.
Source: Africa Publicity
