A Lagos-based church has been thrown into controversy following sexual misconduct allegations against its founder and senior pastor, Chris Okafor, who has now stepped aside from active pastoral duties.
The decision comes amid growing public outcry and pressure from senior Christian leaders after several women, including Nollywood actress Doris Ogala and the pastor’s former wife, accused him of sexual impropriety, manipulation and abuse allegedly spanning several years.
During a church service last Sunday, December 28, 2025, Pastor Okafor publicly apologised to Doris Ogala, kneeling on the pulpit and admitting to what he described as past mistakes, while seeking forgiveness.
The apology followed intense backlash on social media after the actress alleged she had a secret relationship with the cleric for nearly a decade, claiming he promised marriage but later married another woman.
Pastor Okafor got married to a new wife, identified as Pearl, on December 16, 2025, at a ceremony attended by prominent Pentecostal leaders, even as the allegations continued to trend online.
PFN weighs next steps
Sources within the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, PFN, say the pastor’s decision to step aside was influenced by strong counsel from senior figures within the fellowship, aimed at calming tensions and safeguarding the image of the church.
A senior PFN official explained that while the body does not have the power to investigate criminal allegations, it applied what was described as “spiritual pressure” on the cleric to temporarily withdraw from the pulpit.
The official noted that internal deliberations had been slowed by the Christmas and New Year holidays but confirmed that Pastor Okafor is expected to remain off active ministry for at least one month.
According to the source, allegations bordering on rape or sexual abuse fall strictly under criminal law and should be handled by the police.
Addressing his congregation during the church’s crossover service, Pastor Okafor said his decision to step down was based on divine instruction and the need for rest following his recent wedding.
He said the break, expected to last until February, would not amount to total disengagement from church activities.
More accusations surface
The controversy began on December 14 when Doris Ogala released emotional videos on Instagram, alleging a sexual relationship with the pastor dating back to 2017.
She further claimed that her intimate photos were shared without consent and that the relationship contributed to emotional and financial hardship.
She later issued a legal notice demanding one billion naira in damages, alleging intimidation and unlawful detention after the videos went viral.
Other women have since come forward with similar claims, including the pastor’s former wife, who accused him of infidelity and abuse, and a former choir member who alleged a long-term affair and broken marriage promises.
Additional claims have emerged on social media, including calls for DNA tests and allegations of inappropriate conduct, some of which the pastor has denied.
Police yet to receive petition
The Lagos State Police Command says no formal complaint has been filed against the cleric. The police spokesperson, Abimbola Adebisi, stated that law enforcement cannot act solely on allegations circulating on social media and urged anyone with evidence to submit a formal petition.
Mixed reactions from church members
At the church’s headquarters in Ojodu, Lagos, reactions among worshippers were divided.
Some members dismissed the allegations as blackmail, while others described the situation as a spiritual trial for the church.
Reacting to the development, the Lagos Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Bishop Stephen Adegbite, called on ministers to live by the values they preach, stressing that accountability must begin within the church.
As the controversy continues to unfold, attention remains on possible police action and the outcome of ongoing consultations within the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria.