The Rivers State Police Command has arrested a 41-year-old pastor, Ifediorah Onyeibor Joseph, for allegedly subjecting minors to dehumanising treatment during a church programme.

The arrest followed a viral video on social media showing children being mistreated in a church setting. Police said the pastor allegedly organised a three-day programme for children, purportedly for “spiritual cleaning,” claiming divine inspiration.

Operatives stormed the church premises, arrested the pastor and several members of his congregation, and rescued the minors, who were placed under protective care.

Police spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, said: “Preliminary investigations reveal that Pastor Ifediorah allegedly organised a three-day programme 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.”

“The Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, urges members of the public to remain calm as we continue our investigation.

The safety and dignity of vulnerable persons, especially minors, remain a top priority for the Command.”

Adepoju reiterated the Command’s commitment to protecting citizens, particularly minors, and urged residents to report suspicious activities or cases of abuse to the nearest police station or relevant security agency.