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A widely respected Nigerian cleric, Prophet Ayodeji Oluwatugbo, founder of the Christ Apostolic Church Deliverance and Prophetic Outreach, has raised serious allegations against officers of the Nigerian Police Force. He claims he and members of his ministry were harassed and extorted by police personnel in Lagos during the early hours of Saturday, July 12, 2025.
The incident reportedly took place around 5:00 a.m. at Justrite Road, beside the Ojodu Berger motor park. Prophet Oluwatugbo and his team were on their way to Alagbole, Ogun State, for an early morning prayer program when their vehicle was stopped by police officers.
Prophet Oluwatugbo, known for his impactful prophetic ministry and humanitarian outreach, was conducting one of his regular live Facebook broadcasts when the encounter occurred. The entire incident was captured in real-time, with many viewers from Nigeria and abroad watching as events unfolded.
During the livestream, concerned followers flooded the comment section with prayers and words of caution. Phrases like “Stay safe, Prophet” and “We’re praying for you” echoed through the feed as viewers watched the visibly tense situation.
Contrary to public expectations during such stops, the prophet stated that the officers did not inquire about their movement or show concern about the Lagos State curfew, which was in place due to the scheduled local government elections. Instead, he alleged, their only interest was financial.
According to the cleric, the police officers demanded money without any explanation or legal basis. He said they issued threats, including saying they could “waste” them with their rifles if they did not comply. In the end, one of the prophet’s disciples was allegedly forced to hand over ₦1,000 before they were allowed to go.
“This was not about any law enforcement,” Prophet Oluwatugbo said during the livestream. “They didn’t ask about where we were going or why we were out early. They just wanted money, and they threatened our lives if we didn’t give it.”
Shocked and disappointed, the man of God immediately placed a call to the Assistant Commissioner of Police (DCP) in Lagos State, ACP Olusola Oyewole to report the matter. He said the DCP confirmed that the curfew was officially set to begin at 7:00 a.m. and run until 3:00 p.m., and that any enforcement before then was not sanctioned.
According to Prophet Oluwatugbo, the ACP expressed displeasure over the conduct of the officers and promised that appropriate action would be taken. The prophet further stated that the incident was not only a violation of his rights but an abuse of authority by men who are supposed to uphold the law.
Prophet Ayodeji Oluwatugbo is a well-known servant of God whose ministry has drawn thousands of followers both locally and internationally. Over the years, he has earned a reputation for humility, integrity, and spiritual insight. His outreach programs, which are often streamed live, have become a source of encouragement and transformation for many.
The harassment incident has since generated widespread condemnation on social media. Several viewers and supporters of the prophet have called on the Lagos State Police Command to identify the officers involved and bring them to justice. Some also called for internal reforms within the police force to address the growing concerns of extortion and misuse of power.
Many see the situation as yet another example of the challenges faced by law-abiding citizens and even revered religious leaders, in dealing with rogue elements within the security agencies.
As of the time of filing this report, the Lagos State Police Command has not released any official statement on the matter.
Observers say the case underscores the urgent need for greater police accountability, especially in light of previous incidents of abuse reported across the country.