Chukwu Obinna 
YENAGOA, Nigeria – Police in Yenagoa arrest a pastor and his wife following allegations of repeated sexual abuse of a 13-year-old girl, authorities confirm.
The Bayelsa State Police Command says the suspects are taken into custody after the girl’s mother files a complaint at the Ekeki Police Division. The Commissioner of Police, Iyamah Edebor, confirms on Monday that the case has been transferred to the command’s gender unit for full investigation and possible prosecution.
According to police, the victim—who is related to the pastor’s wife—alleges the abuse occurs both at the church premises and at the couple’s residence while she is sent on errands. She tells investigators that on one occasion the pastor locks the church door and assaults her, despite her screams. She alleges the abuse happens on five separate occasions.
The girl says she only discloses the incidents after missing her menstrual period and undergoing a medical scan that confirms a pregnancy.
Her mother confronts the couple and is allegedly urged by a family member not to report the matter to avoid “destroying God’s house.” Police sources say she is offered ₦120,000 to arrange an abortion—an allegation now included in the investigation.
Tensions escalate during a church service on Sunday when the couple publicly thank God for overcoming perceived enemies, remarks that anger the victim’s mother. She then files complaints at Ekeki Police Division and with the National Association of Women Against Gender Based Violence, led by Dise Goddy-Harry.
An attempted arrest during the service briefly disrupts proceedings after the pastor flees through a rear exit. He later turns himself in at the station after his wife is taken into custody. Investigations continue.
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Oluwatobi Adu 
Mirian Gom 