Cops Arrest Pastor Over Alleged Rape of 16-Year-Old Girl After Deceiving Family With False Spiritual Claims
The Nasarawa State Police Command has arrested and taken into custody a pastor, Asonye Isaiah, over allegations that he raped a 16-year-old girl in the Karshi area of Karu Local Government Area.
The development was disclosed by the Police spokesperson, SP Ramhan Nansel in a statement released on Sunday, April 19, 2026.
According to the statement, the suspect allegedly deceived and gained the trust of the victim’s family after telling her aunt that the teenager was “possessed” and needed spiritual cleansing at a river. Acting based on this said claim, the girl’s family handed her over to him.
Contrary to their expectations, instead of carrying out the alleged spiritual cleansing, he reportedly took her to a hotel in New Karshi, where he allegedly raped her. He was also said to have threatened to assassinate her if she revealed the incident.
The case reportedly came to limelight after the victim’s guardian noticed unusual behavioural changes and questioned her, prompting further action.
“Operatives attached to Karshi Divisional Headquarters have arrested one Pastor Asonye Isaiah, 37, of Rock of Love and Adoration Ground, Old Karshi, Abuja, for allegedly raping a 16-year-old girl in Nasarawa State,” the statement read.
“The arrest followed a complaint lodged at the Division on 18th April, 2026, at about 2000hrs.
“Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect deceived the victim’s aunt, claiming her niece was ‘possessed’ and required cleansing at a river.
“He instead took the victim to a hotel in New Karshi, where he allegedly raped her.
“He further threatened to kill her if she disclosed the incident.
“The crime came to light after the victim’s guardian observed unusual changes in her behaviour and questioned her.
“The victim was immediately taken for medical examination which confirmed penile penetration.
“Upon interrogation, the suspect confessed to the offence and pleaded for leniency.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Shetima Jauro Mohammed, has directed that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Lafia, for comprehensive investigation and prosecution.