A 63-year-old pastor, identified as Luke Eze, has been ordered into prison custody in Enugu State after being accused of drugging and raping two sisters, aged 16 and 19, during what he described as a deliverance session.
The Enugu State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, confirmed that the cleric was arrested on September 11, 2025, by operatives of the Iwollo Police Division. His arrest followed a formal complaint filed by the victims’ parents.
Police investigations revealed that the incident occurred on September 7, 2025, at Eze’s church, City of Hope Ministry, popularly called Ọkụ Night, located in Oghe community. Reports allege that the pastor first lured the 16-year-old to the church for deliverance. He allegedly instructed her to perform a ritual involving an empty mortar, after which he gave her a liquid substance that rendered her unconscious. While in that state, he reportedly raped her.
When the girl failed to return home, her 19-year-old sister went in search of her at the church. There, she was allegedly subjected to the same ritual and also given the intoxicating substance. She too became unconscious and was subsequently assaulted.
According to police, both sisters regained consciousness the following day, September 8, and discovered they were naked, with bloodstains and other physical signs of abuse.
During the investigation, officers recovered two plastic bottles containing substances suspected to have been administered to the victims. The bottles have been sent for forensic testing.
The police spokesperson also stated that Pastor Eze confessed to the crime during interrogation, attributing his actions to “the devil.” He has since been arraigned in court and placed in correctional custody pending further proceedings.
Condemning the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, described the act as both “abominable and senseless.” He urged parents and community members to be vigilant against individuals disguising themselves as spiritual leaders to exploit others. He further assured the public that the police will ensure justice is served.
