The Ogun State Police Command arrested Pastor Omogbolahan Israel Idowu of the Celestial Church of Christ on allegations that he sexually abused his 16‑year‑old stepdaughter and warned her against reporting the crime. The detention followed a petition filed by the Lagos State branch of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) on 26 October 2026.
Key facts
- The petition claims Idowu began a sexual relationship with the girl when she was 14, after marrying her mother, Bukola Rachel Omogbolahan, and moving the family into his home in Ologbo Ark, Shimawa, Ogun State.
- Abuse allegedly continued after the victim turned 16, and Idowu is said to have threatened to kill her if she disclosed the acts.
- The CDHR urged authorities to protect the children, prosecute the pastor if evidence supports the claim, and refer the minors to child‑protection services.
- Shimawa Divisional Police Officer acknowledged receipt of the petition on 27 October 2026 and subsequently summoned the pastor, his wife, and a church elder for questioning.
- Both the pastor and the victim's mother were detained after statements were taken; the teenager was taken to Shimawa General Hospital on 28 October for a medical examination, with results handed to investigators.
What prompted the police action?
The CDHR’s written complaint, addressed to the Divisional Police Officer of the Shimawa Police Division, detailed the alleged abuse and threats, compelling the police to act swiftly to safeguard the children and preserve evidence.
How did the authorities respond?
Police officials confirmed they received the petition, invited the accused and related parties for statements, and detained the pastor and the victim’s mother pending further investigation. Medical reports from Shimawa General Hospital were submitted to the investigative team.
What are the next steps?
The CDHR called for a thorough probe, immediate protection for the minors, and, if the allegations are substantiated, prosecution of Idowu under relevant child‑protection statutes. The case remains under active investigation by the Shimawa police unit.
The incident underscores ongoing concerns about child sexual abuse in Nigeria and highlights the role of civil‑society organisations in prompting law‑enforcement action.