Several prominent Nigerian pastors have been embroiled in alleged rape and sexual misconduct allegations in recent years, raising serious concerns about abuse of power and accountability within religious institutions.
From high-profile figures like Biodun Fatoyinbo of COZA to Johnson Suleman of Omega Fire Ministries, the allegations, have sparked outrage, social media campaigns, and calls for reform in church leadership practices.
Below are four Nigerian pastors who have been publicly accused of rape or sexual misconduct in recent years:
- Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo – Biodun Fatoyinbo founder of the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA), was accused in 2019 by Busola Dakolo, who alleged that he raped her when she was a teenager and a member of his church. Fatoyinbo denied the accusation. Previous allegations of sexual misconduct had also surfaced against him, including a 2013 accusation by blogger Ese Walter
-
Apostle Johnson Suleman – Johnson Suleman, leader of Omega Fire Ministries, was accused in 2017 by Stephanie Otobo, a Canadian-based singer and former church member. She alleged a sexual relationship, manipulation, and threats. She later recanted, claiming she was paid to defame him
-
TB Joshua (Synagogue Church Of All Nations – SCOAN) – After his death in 2021, multiple women came forward in a BBC Eye Africa investigation alleging that TB Joshua had sexually and physically abused his followers, including rape and torture. The allegations, made public in 2024, have been met with both support and skepticism among his followers.
-
Prophet Timothy Omotoso – Timothy Omotoso, a Nigerian pastor operating in South Africa with Jesus Dominion International, was arrested in 2017 following accusations from multiple women, some minors who alleged rape, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking.
