The Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has confirmed the arrest of a Benin-based cleric, Bishop Gideon Osagie Osaze of the Royal Life of Christ Brethren Ministry, in connection with allegations of sexual abuse involving two sisters who were reportedly minors at the time of the alleged incidents.
According to the Ministry, the arrest followed a formal complaint submitted by the alleged victims, prompting an investigation with the involvement of relevant child-protection and law enforcement agencies. Authorities say the case remains under active investigation.
Information made available to investigators indicates that the sisters alleged the incidents occurred over an extended period within what they described as a trusted religious and family setting. They claimed the cleric allegedly used his position of authority to exploit and intimidate them into silence.
The complainants further alleged that they were subjected to threats, oaths, and psychological pressure to discourage them from reporting the matter. One of the sisters claimed she felt closely monitored, which she said contributed to prolonged fear and delayed disclosure. The second sister alleged that she was assaulted after responding to an invitation she believed to be safe and familiar.
Both individuals stated that they eventually reported the matter after confiding in a trusted family member, adding that the experience had lasting emotional and psychological effects.
Responding to the allegations, Apostle Gideon Osagie Osaze has denied any wrongdoing. He stated that one of the complainants had told him she was 21 years old at the time and claimed that their interaction was consensual. He also alleged that he proposed marriage to her, a claim the complainant has refuted.
Confirming the arrest, the Edo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah, said the cleric was apprehended through a lawful process. She emphasized the state government’s commitment to justice, noting that due process would be observed while ensuring the protection of the rights and welfare of the complainants.
Also speaking on the matter, the Manager of the Vivian Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Dr. Faith Edobor, confirmed that the complainants were examined at the centre and that the case had been formally documented. She said preliminary assessments were conducted and that investigations by relevant authorities are ongoing.
State officials have urged the public to remain calm and allow the investigation to run its course, while advocacy groups have renewed calls for stronger child-protection frameworks and increased vigilance within religious and community institutions.
