The Rivers State Police Command has arrested 41-year-old Pastor Ifediorah Onyeibor Joseph after a viral video emerged showing him allegedly abusing children during a controversial church programme in Port Harcourt.
The disturbing footage, which has been widely circulated on social media, shows at least 20 children, many unclad, kneeling with palm leaves in hand while being flogged with palm fronds.
The man, believed to be the pastor, is seen whipping the children before tossing them to a man and woman dressed in white.
A voice in the background alleges the incident had been ongoing for three days, with claims that the children bore visible marks on their bodies and that there was blood in a basin at the scene.
In a statement on Wednesday, police spokesperson SP Grace Iringe-Koko confirmed the arrest, revealing that Pastor Ifediorah claimed the three-day programme was for “spiritual cleaning” and was inspired by the Holy Spirit. She said operatives arrested the pastor and several church members following coordinated intelligence.
Police Commissioner CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju urged the public to remain calm and report any suspicious activities, assuring that a thorough investigation was underway.
The case has triggered widespread outrage, with many Nigerians calling for immediate justice for the children.
