The Lagos State Police Command has announced the temporary suspension of its investigation into serious allegations against Chris Okafor, founder of the Mountain of Liberation and Miracle Ministries, citing the need to await the outcome of a parallel probe being handled by the office of the Inspector General of Police (IGP).
The allegations, which emerged on social media earlier this month, include claims of sexual assault and involvement in murder. An anonymous individual alleged to be in hiding in Port Harcourt accused Okafor of hiring assassins to carry out killings, reigniting earlier accusations from actress Doris Ogala, who had previously implicated the pastor in her brother’s death.
Why the Investigation Was Paused
Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Adebisi, stated on Thursday that the command’s investigation was halted because “all the complainants we have been calling on have refused to show up.” Additionally, she explained that the Lagos command cannot conduct a simultaneous investigation with Zone 2 Command in Abuja, which is now overseeing the case under the IGP’s directive.
“When it is done with them in Zone 2, we will reopen ours,” Adebisi said, noting that Okafor was released on "personal recognition.
Background of the Case
Following the viral allegations, Lagos State Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh had initially directed the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Panti to commence an inquiry. It was later discovered that a separate petition on the same matter had been forwarded to the Assistant Inspector-General of Police at Zone 2 Command.
Police also stated they provided immediate security protection for the alleged victims. Okafor surrendered to authorities a day after an arrest warrant was issued.
Awaiting Further Developments
For now, the Lagos police have adopted a “wait-and-see” approach, pending the conclusion of the Zone 2 investigation. The case has drawn significant public attention, highlighting the challenges of investigating high-profile figures when complainants are reluctant to come forward and multiple jurisdictions are involved.
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