Operatives of the Nasarawa State Police Command have arrested a 37-year-old pastor, Asonye Isaiah, for allegedly defiling a 16-year-old girl after luring her under the false pretext of spiritual cleansing.
The suspect, who operates from the Rock of Love and Adoration Ground in Old Karshi, was detained following a complaint lodged at the Karshi Divisional Police Headquarters on April 18, 2026, at about 8:00 pm.
According to police authorities, Isaiah deceived the victim’s aunt by claiming the teenager was “possessed” and needed ritual cleansing at a river.
Instead, he took her to a hotel in New Karshi, where he allegedly had unlawful carnal knowledge of her twice.
The pastor reportedly threatened to kill the girl if she revealed the incident to anyone.
The crime came to light when the victim’s guardian noticed unusual changes in her behaviour and pressed her for an explanation. The girl was immediately taken for medical examination, which confirmed penile penetration.
During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to the offence and pleaded for leniency. The Police have described the act as a gross abuse of trust, with the perpetrator exploiting his position as a cleric to prey on a vulnerable minor.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Shetima Jauro Mohammed, has directed that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Lafia for a comprehensive investigation and diligent prosecution. He assured that justice would be served without delay.
In a strongly worded caution, Mohammed urged members of the public to exercise vigilance regarding places of worship and individuals who parade themselves as clerics or spiritual leaders.
“Parents and guardians should be wary of anyone who claims to possess supernatural solutions for personal or family problems, especially when such claims involve isolating minors,” he said.
