Nigerian Police Summon Pastor Abraham Daniel Over Allegations Of Defamation And Cyberbullying.
In a case that has captured the attention of many across Nigeria, the Nigerian Police Force has summoned Pastor Abraham Daniel, a former minister of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, for questioning. The summons relates to allegations of betrayal, defamation, and cyberbullying, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing feud between Pastor Daniel and the church’s founder, Pastor Paul Enenche.
The summons, officially signed by DCP Alhassan Kawu Yahaya representing the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Force Intelligence Department (FID), Abuja, requires Pastor Daniel to appear at the FID Complex on the 7th of January, 2025. The document lists the charges as “cyberbullying, criminal defamation, injurious falsehood, false publication, and inciting public nuisance.” “You are requested to report for an interview with the Deputy Inspector General of Police… on arrival, you may wish to come along with your attorney,” the letter explicitly stated, highlighting the legal gravity of the situation.
A Gentleman’s Agreement Unravels
The roots of this conflict trace back to what Pastor Daniel describes as a “gentleman’s agreement” made during an out-of-court settlement. Daniel claims that after years of discord, an informal agreement was struck at the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) where Pastor Enenche allegedly promised to replace Daniel’s 2004 Toyota Corolla, which was damaged in 2020 amidst alleged intimidation tactics by the church’s leadership.
In an interview with SaharaReporters, Daniel elucidated, “It was a verbal agreement during our meeting at the FCID. No lawyer was involved; we both laid out our conditions and agreed to withdraw the case.” However, he alleges that the church has since failed to honour this agreement.
Allegations of Blackmail and Betrayal
Daniel’s grievances go beyond the unfulfilled car replacement promise. He has accused Pastor Enenche and other church leaders of orchestrating his wrongful imprisonment, claiming it stemmed from false charges of embezzlement and blackmail. His three-week detention at Suleja Prison, Abuja, not only disrupted his life but also led to the disintegration of his family and business. “My wife left with our five children, allegedly influenced by the church. I lost everything,” he shared with evident pain.
Church Leadership Responds
While Pastor Enenche has not publicly addressed these latest allegations, sources close to Dunamis International Gospel Centre have dismissed them as baseless, suggesting they are part of a campaign to besmirch Pastor Enenche and the church’s reputation.
Legal Implications and Public Sentiment
The case has sparked a mix of public reactions, with debates raging on social media platforms about the credibility of both parties. Legal experts have pointed out the complications arising from the informal nature of the agreement. Barrister Anthony Ogunleye commented, “The absence of a written agreement complicates the case. It’s essentially a ‘he said, she said’ scenario, and proving breach of agreement becomes difficult without documented evidence.”
Police Investigation Gains Momentum
The Nigerian Police’s involvement introduces a new chapter in this saga. The investigation will not only focus on Pastor Daniel’s actions but also examine any potential wrongdoing by the church’s leadership. A senior police officer confirmed, “No one is above the law, and we will thoroughly investigate all aspects of this case.”
A Cry for Justice
For Pastor Daniel, this legal battle is more than just about a vehicle; it’s about reclaiming his life and dignity. “All I want is for the church to fulfill its promise and leave my family alone. My children and I have suffered enough,” he expressed, seeking not vengeance but justice.
This case continues to unfold, with many watching closely to see how the Nigerian legal system will navigate through this complex web of personal, legal, and religious entanglements.
