By Gite Igiehon
Society Column
Renowned Nigerian clergyman and founder of House on the Rock Church, Pastor Paul Adefarasin, was at the center of public attention after a viral video surfaced showing him behind the wheel of an unregistered vehicle, holding an unidentified object while driving. The short clip, which has since garnered thousands of views across social media platforms, prompted swift reaction from the Lagos State Police Command, who summoned the pastor for questioning regarding potential safety and legal violations.
The Viral Clip That Sparked Questions
The video in question shows Pastor Adefarasin casually driving a sleek, dark-colored car believed to be newly acquired. However, what caught the attention of viewers was the absence of a visible number plate on the vehicle and the presence of an object in his hand while driving. The video, reportedly filmed by a passenger or companion in the vehicle, was originally shared in a lighthearted context but quickly took a serious turn online.
Speculation immediately flooded the internet, with many Nigerians asking: What was he holding? Some viewers suggested the item resembled a weapon or a dangerous object, while others dismissed the claim as exaggerated, pointing to the possibility of it being a harmless accessory or symbolic item.
Police Interrogation and Response
Following growing public concerns, the Lagos State Police Command confirmed that Pastor Adefarasin was invited for questioning to clarify the nature of the object and the circumstances under which the video was recorded. According to police spokesperson SP Benjamin Hundeyin, “No one is above the law. The content of the video raised valid concerns that warranted clarification, particularly regarding public safety and compliance with traffic regulations.”
Pastor Adefarasin reportedly honored the invitation and appeared at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Yaba, Lagos. Sources close to the interrogation disclosed that he cooperated fully with authorities, explained the context of the video, and submitted the object in question for inspection. Police later confirmed the item was not a weapon, contrary to online rumors, but have not disclosed its specific nature for privacy and security reasons.
Regarding the unregistered car, Adefarasin explained that it was a newly delivered vehicle pending proper documentation and plate registration. He apologized for the oversight and assured police that the car would be duly registered immediately.
Public Reactions and Mixed Views
Reactions from the public and religious communities have been mixed. While many of his followers defended the pastor, praising his humility for honoring the police invitation and clearing the air, critics argued that such incidents set a bad example, especially when involving influential public figures.
“This is a teachable moment,” wrote one user on X (formerly Twitter). “Whether it’s Pastor Adefarasin or a regular citizen, everyone should comply with safety and registration laws.”
Others saw the incident as a social media overreaction. “People are too quick to jump to conclusions. The man has been a respected voice in the nation for decades. Let’s not cancel people on the basis of a 10-second video clip,” one comment read.
Church Responds
In a brief statement released by House on the Rock’s media team, the church acknowledged the video and the subsequent police invitation. “Pastor Paul Adefarasin remains a law-abiding citizen and cooperated fully with authorities to clarify any misconceptions. We urge the public to avoid spreading unfounded rumors and to respect the ongoing clarification process.”
A Reminder of Social Media’s Power
This incident underscores the power—and sometimes the pitfalls—of social media in today’s public discourse. A lighthearted or casual post can easily escalate into a legal or reputational matter, especially when high-profile individuals are involved. For Pastor Adefarasin, the situation serves as both a moment of public scrutiny and a reminder of the weight that leadership carries in the digital age.
For now, police have confirmed that there is no further cause for investigation, and no charges have been filed. But the question remains for many: in a world where perception can overshadow fact, how can public figures better navigate the balance between visibility and accountability?
As for the pastor, he appears to be moving forward, with regular ministry engagements continuing and no interruption to his church’s activities. Still, the viral clip has left its mark—as both a public conversation starter and cautionary tales.
