The Bayelsa State Police Command has arrested a 50-year-old pastor, identified as Ambros Mark, over the alleged sexual defilement of two underage girls aged 13 and 14 in Yenagoa, the state capital.
The arrest was confirmed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Mohammed, who disclosed that the suspect had allegedly confessed to the offence. He added that the Commissioner of Police, CP Ajao Saka Adewale, had ordered the transfer of the case and the suspect to the state police headquarters for further investigation and prosecution.
According to the police spokesperson, officers attached to the ‘A’ Division acted promptly after receiving a complaint about the incident, leading to the suspect’s arrest last Saturday.
The suspect was identified as a pastor at Point of Redemption Church International, located behind the Amarata area of Yenagoa. The two alleged victims were reportedly members of the church choir.
The victims were identified as a 13-year-old girl from Abia State and a 14-year-old girl from Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
Sources familiar with the incident alleged that the 14-year-old girl reported the matter to her father, a police officer attached to the state command, after objecting to the continuation of the alleged sexual act. Her father subsequently lodged a formal complaint with the police.
There were also allegations that the pastor had previously engaged in inappropriate relationships with underage girls. However, these claims have not been independently verified.
Additionally, reports alleged that attempts were made to settle the matter financially with one of the victims’ families. The allegation remains unverified.
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The development has drawn condemnation from the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Bayelsa State chapter, which has called for a comprehensive investigation and the diligent prosecution of the case in accordance with the law.
The chairperson of FIDA Bayelsa, Dr Boma Miebai, said the organisation was monitoring the case to ensure that the rights and interests of the affected children were protected throughout the legal process.
She urged the relevant authorities to ensure that the investigation was thorough and that the case was handled in accordance with established legal procedures.
Miebai also stressed the importance of protecting the children’s safety, dignity and confidentiality, while ensuring they have access to appropriate legal and psychosocial support.
She warned against attempts to shield individuals accused of sexual offences against children because of their religious positions or influence.
According to her, no religious title or position places anyone above the law, adding that allegations involving the sexual abuse of minors must not be concealed or trivialised.
FIDA reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the protection of women and children and ensuring that the best interests of the alleged victims remain central to the investigation and any subsequent legal proceedings.
The case has renewed concerns about child protection and the responsibility of adults, particularly religious leaders and other persons in positions of trust, to safeguard children under their care.
The police are expected to continue investigations before taking further legal action.
Asenexpress will continue to follow developments in this case.
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