…As NAPTIP orders immediate investigation
Protesters on Friday, stormed the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) office, demanding a probe into allegations of sexual abuse against Daniel Olukoya, the General Overseer of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM).
Sahara Reporters has it that the protesters, comprising a group of women, expressed their concerns over the alleged misconduct and called for immediate action.
The group, under the banner of the Concerned Mothers Advocacy Group staged a protest at the headquarters in Abuja demanding a full-scale investigation into mounting allegations of sexual abuse, intimidation, and exploitation levelled against Dr. Daniel Olukoya, the General Overseer of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM).
The petition signed by Dipo Olujobi outlined accusations ranging from sexual assault and blackmail to legal intimidation and systemic cover-ups allegedly orchestrated by the church’s leadership.
The women explained that religious leaders must not be allowed to exploit vulnerable individuals under the guise of faith, emphasising that NAPTIP must act urgently to ensure justice for victims and prevent further abuse.
The petition read in part: “We, the Concerned Mothers Advocacy Group, urgently call on NAPTIP to investigate the grave allegations against Dr. Daniel Olukoya, General Overseer of MFM, including systemic sexual abuse, intimidation, and exploitation of congregants.
“These acts violate multiple Nigerian laws and demand immediate intervention.
“Background of Allegations: Legal Intimidation: Former MFM minister Funke Ashekun, a 20-year member, alleged that Dr. Olukoya uses proxy lawsuits to silence critics, draining them financially.”
According to Ashekun, pastors transferred from Nigeria file suits on his behalf to avoid direct involvement. She reportedly faced four lawsuits in the U.S., resulting in a $50,000 fine, while another victim, Badejo, was allegedly bankrupted in the U.K.
“Sexual Abuse and Blackmail: Multiple women have accused Dr. Olukoya of sexual assault, allegedly recorded using disguised devices such as pens and buttons. Akpeji Daniel, a former associate, reportedly admitted on record to procuring women for Olukoya and confirmed the sharing of illicit videos.”
The petition also noted that the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has not publicly disowned Olukoya, despite claims that he is not a registered member.
The group urged NAPTIP to collaborate with Relevant Agencies, launch an Independent Investigation in probe allegations of sexual abuse, intimidation, and exploitation within MFM.
They also asked NAPTIP to work with the Nigerian Police, National Human Rights Commission, and INTERPOL to investigate cross-border elements of the case; Protect Victims and Whistleblowers: Secure witness testimonies using the VAPP Act’s protection provisions; Review MFM’s Legal Practices; Investigate the use of proxy lawsuits as a potential abuse of judicial processes; Engage Religious Bodies and seek clarification from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) regarding Olukoya’s membership and hold religious leaders accountable.
“The gravity of these allegations threatens the sanctity of religious institutions and the safety of vulnerable Nigerians. We implore NAPTIP to act swiftly, leveraging its mandate under Section 4(d) of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act 2015 to address exploitation and uphold justice.”
NAPTIP officials acknowledged receipt of the petition and assured the protesters that the agency would review the allegations in accordance with its legal mandate.
Speaking with the Press Officer, NAPTIP, Mr Vincent Adekoye said that the Director of NAPTIP, Binta Adamu Bello, OON, has directed immediate investigation into the issues raised in the petition.
According to him, the DG is a passionate and caring person who is concerned with the plight of all, so she will ensure that justice is served in the matter where necessary.
