The Lagos State Police Command has confirmed that cleric Chris Okafor has presented himself for investigation following allegations of sexual assault and murder made against him.
The probe commenced on Sunday amid growing public concern over accusations circulating on social media.
Tension escalated after an unidentified person, who claimed to be in hiding in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, alleged that Okafor, founder of Mountain Of Liberation And Miracle Ministries, hired him to carry out killings.
These fresh allegations are linked to earlier claims by actress Doris Ogala, who accused Okafor of being aware of the poisoning and subsequent death of her brother.
In response to the widespread reactions, the Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, ordered the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Panti to open an investigation.
Confirming the development, police spokesperson Abimbola Adebisi said Okafor was officially invited to appear before the SCID by 10 a.m. on Monday, following concerns that the allegations could threaten public peace.
However, Jimoh disclosed in an interview with TVC that Okafor failed to appear in person on Monday and instead contacted the police through his lawyer, a situation that led to the issuance of an arrest warrant.
“When he was invited, he got to us through his lawyer, who said he would be appearing on Monday. So, on Monday, we waited for him. We did not see him, and I directed that he should be arrested,” he said.
“Subsequently, he showed up yesterday (Tuesday). Yes, he showed up yesterday.”
The police commissioner further revealed that the matter has also been reported at the office of the assistant inspector-general of police and has since been transferred to the Zone 2 Command for further investigation.
He also confirmed that the police have ordered immediate security protection for the alleged victims.