The Edo State Government has arrested Bishop Gideon Osagie Osazee, founder of Rollo Life of Christ Brethren Ministry, over allegations of sexually abusing two biological sisters aged 13 and 17.
The state Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Eugene Abdullah, disclosed on Tuesday that four other girls have also accused the cleric of engaging in sexual activity with them.
Bishop Osazee was apprehended following days of surveillance by state officials.
Abdullah confirmed that additional children from the church have reported sexual harassment by the suspect, adding that the case has been transferred to the Criminal Investigation Department of the Edo State Police Command for prosecution.
Faith Edebor of the Vivian Sexual Assault Referral Centre said preliminary investigations corroborate the victims’ testimonies.
The eldest sister, aged 21, also alleged that Bishop Osazee assaulted her while she was asleep and forced her to take an oath not to disclose the abuse, threatening her with harm if she spoke out.
However, the suspect has denied the allegations, claiming he had a relationship with the eldest sister, who he said told him she was 21 years old at the time.
Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
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