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Women from the Concerned Mothers Advocacy Group have protested at the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) headquarters in Abuja.

In response to growing claims of sexual abuse, intimidation, and exploitation against Dr. Daniel Olukoya, the General Overseer of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM), they called for a thorough inquiry.

On Friday, the demonstrators—some of whom were clearly upset and holding signs—sent a thorough petition to NAPTIP’s director-general, urging prompt action.

According to the petition, which was signed by a person named Dipo Olujobi, the church’s leadership is accused of orchestrating widespread cover-ups, legal intimidation, sexual assault, and extortion.

The women emphasized that NAPTIP must take immediate action to guarantee victims’ justice and stop additional abuse, explaining that religious leaders cannot exploit weaker people in the name of their faith.

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 sexual 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.

“Sexual Abuse and Blackmail: Multiple women have accused Dr. Olukoya of sexual 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.”

Despite allegations that Olukoya is not a registered member, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has not officially repudiated him, according to the petition.

“Legal Violations: The allegations contravene several Nigerian laws, including: Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP) 2015:

“Section 1: Prohibits sexual violence and coercion; Section 18: Criminalizes intimidation and emotional/psychological abuse.

“Criminal Code Act (Sections 357–364): Criminalizes sexual 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 called on NAPTIP to: Work with Relevant Agencies: Conduct an Independent Investigation to look into claims of sexual assault, intimidation, and exploitation inside MFM.

“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.

Officials from NAPTIP confirmed receiving the petition and gave the demonstrators their word that the agency will investigate the claims in compliance with its legal authority.

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