By Olatunbosun Obafemi
Police in Rivers State have arrested three church leaders after a disturbing video showing minors being whipped during a “spiritual cleansing” ritual went viral on social media.
The Divisional Police Officer of Eneka Police Station, Akpo Lewis, confirmed the arrest of Pastor Ifediorah Joseph, church welfare secretary Promise Nwikegha, and minister Deborah Ohia.
The footage, which has sparked outrage online, depicts children aged between five and nine being struck several times with palm fronds by the cleric in front of a congregation. After each whipping, the child is handed to another church member, who directs them to a separate group referred to as “cleansed.”
Our correspondent at the Eneka Police Station observed that the children’s parents were present during the incident and told police they had consented to the ceremony.
Speaking to reporters in custody, Pastor Joseph defended his actions, insisting the ritual was spiritually inspired. “It was not carried out carnally or by anybody’s personal inspiration; it was according to the scripture inspiration,” he said. He identified his church as “Our Lord Victory Command Mission.”
When asked about reports that pigeon blood was used to bathe some children as part of the ritual, Joseph said it was a directive of the Holy Spirit.
Police say investigations are ongoing, with child welfare officials expected to weigh in on the safety and legality of the practices. Authorities have also warned that consent from parents does not excuse abuse or harmful treatment of minors.
The incident has reignited debates over extreme religious practices in Nigeria, particularly rituals involving children, and whether they amount to cultural tradition or child abuse under the law.
