Lagos police say a prominent pastor did not answer a formal invitation for questioning. The cleric is wanted over allegations of rape and acts that could disturb public peace.
Pastor Chris Okafor leads the Mountain of Liberation and Miracles Ministries. The police invited him to report to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Panti, Yaba. He was told to appear by 10 a.m. on Monday.
A police statement confirmed he did not show up. The force's spokesperson in Lagos, Abimbola Adebisi, provided the information on Sunday. The statement said Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh ordered a full investigation.
The invitation followed multiple public complaints. These complaints are connected to alleged sexual offences. Other alleged acts could disrupt public order, police said.
The police did not provide further details about the specific incidents. They also did not name the individuals who made the complaints. The force reiterated its commitment to a thorough process.
Pastor Okafor is a well-known figure in Nigerian Pentecostal circles. His church has a large headquarters in the Agege area of Lagos. He has not made a public statement about the police invitation.
The police spokesperson said the invitation was a normal part of their work. He said it is meant to allow the pastor to give his side of the story. The police stressed the importance of cooperation with the investigation.
Legal experts say ignoring a police invitation can have consequences. While not an arrest, refusal to comply can lead to further action. Police may then seek a court order to force an appearance.
The case has drawn significant attention on social media in Nigeria. Some community members express support for the police investigation. Others urge caution until all facts are established.
This situation occurs amid broader conversations in Nigeria about accountability. Recent years have seen increased scrutiny of powerful religious and community figures. Several high-profile cases involving clerics are currently in the court system.
The Lagos State Police Command stated its investigation remains active. They did not outline the next steps following the pastor's failure to appear. The public will be updated as the case develops, they said.