Police Arrest Fake Pastor Dehumanizing Minors, Rescue Victims in Eneka Community

The Rivers State Police Command says it arrested a 41 years old man, Ifediorah Onyeibor Joseph, who was seen in a viral video trending online dehumanizing children in a supposed church premises at Eneka Community in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State.

Public Relations Officer of the Command, Superintendent Grace Iringe-Koko said this on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

She said operatives of the State Police Command, acting on coordinated intelligence arrested Joseph, who claims to be a pastor, and several members of his church at the crime scene.

The statement is reproduced below:

“The Rivers State Police Command has taken swift action in response to a distressing online video, circulating on social media, depicting the dehumanization of minors within a Church setting, where the presiding Pastor, Pastor Ifediorah Onyeibor Joseph, ‘m’ aged 41, has been arrested in connection with the incident.

Preliminary investigations reveal that Pastor Ifediorah allegedly organized a 3-day program for children in his Church, purportedly for “spiritual cleaning,” claiming to have been inspired by the Holy Spirit.

Upon receiving this information, Operatives from the Rivers State Police Command through coordinated intelligence, arrested the pastor and several Church members at the scene.

A thorough investigation is currently underway to unravel the circumstances surrounding this incident. Further updates will be made public as more information becomes available.”

According to her, the State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju has urged members of the public to remain calm and peaceful while investigation is ongoing, appealing to them to report any suspicious activities or concerns to the nearest Police Station or other security agencies.

He reiterates the Command’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens, particularly vulnerable populations such as minors.

The Command will continue to work tirelessly to address any issues that may compromise the security and dignity of individuals within our State.