The Senior Pastor of Mountain of Liberation and Miracles Ministries, Chris Okafor, failed to honour a police invitation on Monday over allegations bordering on rape and other offences deemed capable of breaching public peace.
The cleric was expected to appear before the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, Lagos, following complaints lodged against him by some individuals.
Police sources said Okafor was directed to report to the SCID by 10 a.m. to meet with the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the department, in line with an order from the Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh.
The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Abimbola Adebisi, had earlier disclosed that the police boss ordered a comprehensive investigation into the allegations, which include claims of sexual misconduct.
However, checks at the SCID revealed that the pastor did not show up as scheduled.
A senior officer at Panti, who spoke in confidence, confirmed the development, saying efforts had been made to debrief the cleric in compliance with the commissioner’s directive.
“The Deputy Commissioner instructed the team handling the matter to interview him, but he never came.
“By evening, it was clear he would not be appearing today,” the officer said.
Another source familiar with the case said the cleric allegedly reached out to the police through intermediaries to seek more time.
“Some of his aides contacted the investigators, requesting an extension and assuring that he would present himself later.
That is the position as of now,” the source added.
Police authorities are yet to officially comment on the next line of action.