The Rivers Police Command has arrested a pastor seen in a viral video flogging and dehumanising minors during his church event in Rivers.
A statement by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Grace Iringe-Koko, identified the pastor as Ifediorah Onyeibor Joseph, ‘m’ aged 41.
The statement said preliminary investigations revealed that 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. 
It said: “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 statement quoted the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju as urging the public to remain calm and peaceful while the investigation was ongoing.
Adepoju also appealed to members of the public to report any suspicious activities or concerns to the nearest police station or other security agencies.
He reiterated the command’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all citizens, particularly vulnerable populations such as minors saying the command would continue to work tirelessly to address any issues that might compromise the security and dignity of individuals within the state.
