Arrest of Self-Acclaimed Cleric for Fraud
The Ogun State Police Command has recently arrested a self-acclaimed cleric, Emmanuel Adegoke, for allegedly defrauding a Nigerian woman based in the United Kingdom of N47 million. The funds were reportedly taken under the false pretense of purchasing a landed property on her behalf.
CSP Omolola Odutola, the spokesperson for the command, confirmed the arrest in a statement released on Saturday. According to the statement, “Operatives of the Ogun State Police Command have arrested one Pastor Emmanuel Adegoke for allegedly obtaining the sum of N47m under false pretence.”
The incident came to light after a petition was filed at the Kemta Divisional Police Headquarters by Mary Abosede, who claimed that between 2013 and 2025, while living in the United Kingdom, she transferred a total of N47 million to Adegoke for the purchase of land and construction of a house in Nigeria.
Upon returning to Nigeria, Abosede visited Adegoke at his church, Covenant Mercy Church, located in Sam Ewang, Idi-Aba, Abeokuta. There, she discovered that no land had been purchased, nor had any building been constructed as agreed.
Investigation and Next Steps
Preliminary investigations conducted by the police revealed that Adegoke, who claims to be a cleric, failed to provide any satisfactory explanation regarding the funds he received. CSP Odutola added, “In the unfolding development, the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, Lanre Ogunlowo, has directed that the parties and the case file be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Eleweran, Abeokuta, for discreet investigation and appropriate action.”
This case highlights a growing trend of fraudulent activities involving self-acclaimed pastors in Ogun State. Over the years, several similar incidents have come to light, raising concerns about the credibility and conduct of such individuals.
Recent Cases Involving Self-Acclaimed Pastors
In February 2024, another self-proclaimed clergyman, Timothy Adedibu, was arrested for allegedly assaulting a nine-year-old girl in Magboro, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of the state. This incident further underscores the need for stricter monitoring and regulation of such figures.
Similarly, in 2023, a pastor associated with the Christ Liberty Evangelism Church, Rosco, Iyana Iyesi, Ota, identified as Oyenekan Oluwaseyi, was arrested alongside three others after they were found with a human skull in the Saje area of Abeokuta, the state capital.
These cases have sparked public outrage and calls for increased vigilance against individuals who exploit their religious status for personal gain.
Conclusion
The arrest of Emmanuel Adegoke serves as a reminder of the importance of due diligence when dealing with individuals who claim to hold spiritual authority. It also emphasizes the role of law enforcement in ensuring justice and protecting the public from fraudulent practices.
As the investigation into Adegoke’s case continues, it is hoped that the outcome will serve as a deterrent to others who may consider engaging in similar activities. The community remains vigilant, hoping for swift and fair resolution of this matter.