The Senior Pastor of Mountain of Liberation and Miracles Ministries, Chris Okafor, has temporarily stepped down from ministry duties following a wave of sexual misconduct allegations and growing pressure from Christian leaders.
Okafor, who recently apologised publicly to actress Doris Ogala during a church service, said the decision was for “spiritual renewal,” explaining that he would use the break for rest, prayer and retreat with his wife.
He noted that the leave would last until February, though he would not be entirely absent from church activities.
However, senior officials of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria confirmed that respected leaders urged the cleric to step aside to calm tensions while conversations continue within the Christian community.
The official stressed that PFN has no legal power to conduct criminal investigations, adding that law-enforcement agencies should handle any petitions, while church bodies can only apply internal discipline.
The allegations against Okafor intensified after Ogala accused him on social media of manipulation and broken promises.
More women later shared separate claims of misconduct.
Some went as far as accusing the pastor of emotional and financial harm, while his former wife also revisited past grievances.
Despite the growing controversy, members of Okafor’s church defended him, dismissing the accusations as blackmail and an attempt to tarnish his image.
Several worshippers described the pastor as generous and devoted, insisting the public was being misled by online narratives.
The Lagos State Police Command said it has not received any formal petition against Okafor and therefore cannot make arrests based on social media claims alone.
Citizens were encouraged to file complaints if they possess evidence.
Christian leaders have urged caution. The Lagos Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Bishop Stephen Adegbite, reminded pastors to live by the values they preach, while also acknowledging that sincere repentance can lead to restoration.
Other clerics cautioned the public against sensationalising scandals involving religious leaders, while advising pastors to practise discipline and avoid compromising situations.
For now, Okafor remains on a voluntary break from active ministry, as PFN and other church leaders quietly review the situation while awaiting any formal legal complaints.
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