Pastor arrested over alleged sexual abuse of minors in Benin
By SUMAYYAH ADEFAKA
The founder of Rollo Life of Christ Brethren Ministry in Benin, Bishop Gideon Osagie Osazee, has been arrested by the Edo State Government over allegations of sexual abuse involving two biological sisters.
The two sisters told investigators that they were aged 13 and 17 at the time the alleged incidents occurred. In addition, four other girls have reportedly come forward with similar allegations against the cleric, which he has denied.
Officials said Osazee was arrested after several days of surveillance by the state government.
The elder of the two sisters, who said she is now 21, alleged that the incident occurred while she was asleep. She told investigators that she later realised the suspect was her pastor and alleged that she was threatened not to disclose the incident.
The younger sister said she was 13 years old at the time of the alleged abuse.
Osazee denied the allegations, stating that he had a consensual relationship with the elder sister, whom he claimed told him she was 21 years old at the time. He also said he intended to marry her.
The Edo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Eugene Abdullah, said other children from the church had spoken out about alleged sexual harassment by the suspect. She said the matter would be transferred to the Criminal Investigation Department of the Edo State Police Command for prosecution.
