The Edo State Government has confirmed the arrest of the founder of the Royal Life of Christ Brethren Ministry, Bishop Gideon Osagie Osazee, over allegations of prolonged sexual abuse involving two sisters who were minors when the alleged acts began.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Eugenia Abdallah, disclosed that the cleric was apprehended following a formal complaint by the victims, who accused him of sexually abusing them over several years. The sisters alleged that the cleric exploited religious and family trust, intimidated them with oaths, and issued threats to prevent them from speaking out.
Mrs Abdallah said the ministry acted swiftly upon receiving the complaint, collaborating with security agencies and child protection partners to secure the victims, provide psychosocial support, and gather evidence. She noted that despite attempts by the suspect to evade arrest, persistent efforts by the state led to his eventual apprehension after months of tracking.
According to her, the suspect has been handed over to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for prosecution. She stressed that the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo has zero tolerance for sexual and gender-based violence and is committed to ensuring justice for victims, regardless of the suspect’s status or influence.
The commissioner also urged victims of abuse to speak out, assuring them of functional reporting and response mechanisms in the state, including Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs), where survivors can access medical, psychological, and legal support in a safe environment.
Meanwhile, the Manager of the Vivian Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Dr Faith Edebor, confirmed that the victims were received and provided with appropriate medical and psychological care. She said preliminary findings from examinations and assessments align with the victims’ accounts, adding that investigations are ongoing and due process will be strictly followed.
