By Akinsuroju Olubunmi
Edo Pastor and accomplices arrested for brutalising Nonagenarian
The Edo State Police Command has apprehended a pastor known as ‘Sharp Sharp’ and two others for the brutalization of a 90-year-old woman, Adishetu Atairu, along with the community Chief Imam and six others in Ofukpo-Ekperi, Estako Central Local Government Area.
The incident, captured in viral videos on WhatsApp and Facebook, was confirmed by SP Chidi Nwabuzor, the state Police Command spokesperson. The suspects have been charged to court.
Abu Buhari, a resident, recounted that on July 5, his stepmother and others were assaulted by the pastor and his accomplices. Armed men woke residents in the middle of the night, dragging them before a crowd and accusing them of witchcraft. The victims, including Buhari’s stepmother, were subjected to physical abuse and coerced into false confessions.
Buhari explained that community youths, acting against the community’s wishes, had enlisted the pastor for a prayer initiative, which escalated into a violent crusade. The pastor, during the midnight event, called out names provided by the youths, leading to the abduction and assault of the accused individuals.
Buhari’s stepmother, despite her injuries and age, was forced to sit on the floor by the pastor. Following the ordeal, the victims were extorted for fees ranging from N10,000 to N13,000 for supposed miracle cures.
Buhari reported the incident to the police, leading to the pastor’s arrest on July 17 by the Police Area Command Office in Agenebode, Etsako East local government.
The Edo Muslims for Equity and Good Governance have commended the police for their intervention and assured the public of justice for the victims.
Edo Pastor and accomplices arrested for brutalising Nonagenarian