They demanded a full-scale investigation into mounting allegations of s*xual abuse, intimidation, and exploitation levelled against Dr. Daniel Olukoya, the General Overseer of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM).
A group of Nigerian women under the Concerned Mothers Advocacy Group has staged a protest at the headquarters of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) in Abuja, according to report.
They called for a thorough investigation into growing allegations of sexual abuse, intimidation, and exploitation against Dr. Daniel Olukoya, the General Overseer of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM).
The protesters, some visibly emotional and carrying placards, submitted a detailed petition to the Director-General of NAPTIP on Friday, calling for immediate action.
The petition signed by one Dipo Olujobi outlined accusations ranging from s*xual 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 s*xual 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.
"S*xual Abuse and Blackmail: Multiple women have accused Dr. Olukoya of s*xual 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.
"Systemic Cover-Ups: Victims fear retaliation, with reports of violent attacks-including a pastor who was shot in the leg and a church member who narrowly escaped execution in 2008."
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.
"Legal Violations: The allegations contravene several Nigerian laws, including: Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP) 2015:
"Section 1: Prohibits s*xual violence and coercion; Section 18: Criminalizes intimidation and emotional/psychological abuse.
"Criminal Code Act (Sections 357-364): Criminalizes s*xual assault, blackmail, and unauthorized recordings; Cybercrimes (Prohibition and Prevention) Act 2015: Section 24: Prohibits unauthorised interception or recording of private communications.
"Nigerian Constitution (1999): Section 34: Guarantees human dignity and freedom from inhuman or degrading treatment.
"Child Rights Act (2003): Included as a precaution in case minors are found to be involved.
The group urged NAPTIP to: Launch an Independent Investigation: probe allegations of s*xual abuse, intimidation, and exploitation within MFM; collaborate with Relevant Agencies:
"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."
"The petition is backed by sworn testimonies, legal documentation, and a firm commitment to justice," the group noted.
NAPTIP officials acknowledged receipt of the petition and assured the protesters that the agency would review the allegations in accordance with its legal mandate.
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