Civil Society organizations united in protest on Thursday, converging at the Federal High Court in Ikoyi to voice their discontent over the continued detention of Ayotunde Richard, a former chorister at the Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministry. The protesters, brandishing placards, expressed their dissatisfaction with the Police for allegedly disregarding a court order mandating Richard’s release, calling for his immediate freedom.
Ayotunde Richard’s detention stems from accusations of defamation and cyberbullying against Pastor Daniel Olukoya, the General Overseer of MFM. Despite being arraigned in court on Thursday, Justice Ambrose Allagoa ordered Richard to be remanded at the Ikoyi Custodial Centre pending the hearing of his bail application, further fueling the protesters’ outcry for justice.
The protest follows a petition by lawyer Davidon Adejuwon on behalf of Mrs. Sanni, accusing Richard and others of cyberbullying and making libelous claims against Pastor Olukoya. However, Richard had previously filed a suit against Pastor Olukoya, alleging a violation of his fundamental human rights. As the leader of MFM’s backup singers, Richard claimed he was unlawfully detained at the Federal Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Alagbon, Ikoyi, for eight days, citing his detention as illegal and oppressive.
The clash between Richard and Pastor Olukoya has escalated into a legal battle, drawing attention from both supporters and critics. While Richard seeks justice for what he perceives as wrongful detention, Pastor Olukoya’s reputation is under scrutiny, with allegations of cyberbullying and defamation adding complexity to the unfolding legal drama.
PM News