The Rivers State Police Command has apprehended Pastor Ifediorah Onyeibor Joseph for allegedly flogging about 20 children, aged between 5 and 9 years, during a “spiritual cleansing” ritual at his church in Emeka community, Ohio/Akpor Local Government Area.
The Incident
- The children were brought to the pastor’s church for a three-day deliverance program, where they were stripped naked and whipped with palm tree leaves.
- A viral video showed the pastor flogging the minors, who cried out in pain, and then throwing them to his members to catch.
- One parent who attempted to intervene was rebuked and chased away by the pastor.
Police Response
- The police stormed the church, arrested the 41-year-old pastor, and rescued the children.
- The state Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, condemned the incident and assured the public that the command would work tirelessly to ensure the safety and dignity of all citizens, particularly vulnerable populations like minors.
- A thorough investigation is underway to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident.