Edo Govt Arrests Pastor Over Alleged Sexual Abuse of Underage Girls

The Edo State Government has arrested Bishop Gideon Osagie Osazee, founder of the Rollo Life of Christ Brethren Ministry, following allegations that he sexually abused two biological sisters aged 13 and 17.

Authorities disclosed that four other girls have since reported similar allegations, claiming the pastor engaged in sexual acts with them.

Bishop Osazee was taken into custody after several days of surveillance by state officials. Confirming the arrest, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Eugene Abdullah, said additional children from the church had reported cases of sexual harassment involving the suspect. He added that the matter has been transferred to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Edo State Police Command for prosecution.

Also speaking on the case, Faith Edebor of the Vivian Sexual Assault Referral Centre said preliminary findings support the accounts given by the alleged victims.

According to investigators, the eldest sister, aged 21, further accused Bishop Osazee of assaulting her while she was asleep and forcing her to swear an oath of silence, allegedly threatening her with harm if she disclosed the abuse.

Bishop Osazee has denied the allegations, insisting that he had a consensual relationship with the eldest sister, whom he claimed told him she was 21 years old at the time.

Investigations into the case are ongoing.