Society Editor
By Tolu Adesuwa Igiehon
The legal team representing Lagos-based cleric, Pastor Chris Okafor, has challenged individuals making allegations against him on social media to formally present their claims and supporting evidence to the Nigeria Police Force or risk criminal prosecution.
At a press conference in Lagos on Wednesday, counsel to the cleric, Ife Ajayi, lead partner at Sovereignty LP, dismissed the allegations as baseless and malicious, describing them as part of an organised campaign of cyberbullying, blackmail and public incitement.
Ajayi specifically named actress Doris Ogala, social media influencer Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), and several online platforms, accusing them of circulating unverified claims capable of damaging reputations and undermining due process.
“What is playing out is not accountability or advocacy,” Ajayi said. “It is a deliberate attempt to conduct a trial on social media, without evidence, investigation or recourse to the law.”
Origins of the dispute
According to Ajayi, the controversy originated from a business relationship in late 2024 involving Ogala and a third party, from which Pastor Okafor later withdrew after concluding that the arrangement would not achieve its intended objectives.
He said Ogala subsequently accused the cleric of owing her ₦45 million, a claim he described as unfounded. Ajayi added that the narrative later evolved into allegations of a personal relationship, financial demands, and eventually more serious criminal claims.
“Each allegation appeared to escalate when the previous one failed to gain public traction,” he said.
Prior legal action and settlement
Ajayi disclosed that Ogala had previously been arrested and charged to court over alleged cyberstalking, cyberbullying and threats. He said the case was resolved through an out-of-court settlement that was adopted by the court.
Under the terms of the agreement, Ogala allegedly received compensation and undertook not to contact or publicly reference Pastor Okafor again. Ajayi stressed that at no point during those proceedings were allegations of rape, sexual assault or an intimate relationship raised.
He alleged that the settlement was later breached, leading to renewed online attacks against the cleric.
Police involvement and renewed claims
The lawyer said further complaints were filed with the police over alleged blackmail, incitement and cyber harassment, resulting in Ogala’s arrest and interrogation shortly before Christmas 2025.
According to Ajayi, Ogala denied some of the most serious claims attributed to her online while in police custody and was later granted administrative bail on medical grounds, with warnings not to publish unsubstantiated allegations.
Despite this, he said, fresh allegations — including claims of sexual offences — resurfaced on social media, often amplified by influencers and digital platforms.
Criticism of influencers and media platforms
Ajayi accused VDM and other online commentators of abusing their influence by calling for alleged victims to come forward publicly and presenting claims as established facts.
“You cannot simultaneously act as accuser, investigator, prosecutor and judge,” he said, adding that allegations of serious crimes must be reported to law enforcement, not tried on social media.
He also criticised some media organisations for publishing the allegations without verification or seeking a response from Pastor Okafor, describing the practice as sensationalism driven by online traffic.
Cooperation with police investigation
Ajayi maintained that Pastor Okafor has fully cooperated with police investigations, honouring invitations and providing documentation and evidence to counter allegations of rape, abuse or murder.
He said the Lagos State Commissioner of Police directed the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, to handle the matter, and that the cleric was released after answering all questions.
“There was no attempt to evade the police. That narrative is false,” he said.
Direct challenge to accusers
In a direct warning, Ajayi called on Ogala, VDM and others making allegations to submit sworn statements, witnesses and evidence to the police.
“If they genuinely believe these claims, the law provides a clear path. Otherwise, we will pursue every legal remedy available,” he said.
He also faulted a recent online report that quoted an anonymous woman alleging rape, describing it as defamatory and part of a broader attempt to tarnish his client’s image.
Call for restraint
Ajayi urged the public to allow law enforcement agencies to conclude their investigation and cautioned against mob justice fueled by online narratives.
“Nigeria is governed by law, not social media outrage,” he said. “Allegations are not proof, and justice must follow due process.”
He concluded that while Pastor Okafor would not succumb to intimidation or blackmail, his legal team remains determined to ensure accountability for the spread of false and damaging claims.
