Lagos Police Question Pastor Adefarasin Over Viral Video Showing Gun-Like Object
The Lagos State Police Command has confirmed the interrogation of Pastor Paul Adefarasin, founder of the House on the Rock Church, following the circulation of a viral video in which he was seen holding what appeared to be a gun-like object while driving an unregistered vehicle.
The brief clip, widely shared on social media, shows the prominent Lagos pastor behind the wheels of an SUV without visible number plates.
As the person filming approaches the vehicle, Adefarasin is seen lowering his window and raising what many online believed to be a firearm.
The short, silent exchange immediately sparked public concern, with some questioning the legality and appropriateness of such conduct by a well-known religious leader.
Spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed that the pastor had been invited for questioning.
According to the police, the interrogation focused on two key issues: the object that resembled a firearm and the absence of a license plate on the vehicle.
Hundeyin noted that while no formal charges have been filed, the police are investigating the legality of the object shown in the video and seeking to confirm whether any laws were broken.
He added that Adefarasin had cooperated with the police and provided a preliminary explanation.
In response to the controversy, Pastor Adefarasin issued a brief statement, denying that the object was a firearm.
He stated that the item shown in the video had been misunderstood and promised to address the issue more thoroughly during his church’s next service.
“I understand the concern the video has caused. It was not a gun. I would never brandish a weapon or attempt to intimidate anyone. The object was misinterpreted,” he said in a social media post.
He also apologized to members of the public who felt threatened or unsettled by the video, assuring his congregation and the wider community that he supports the rule of law and values public safety.
The incident has divided public opinion. While many Nigerians online condemned the act as irresponsible and intimidating—especially from a religious figure—others defended Adefarasin, pointing to rising insecurity in Lagos and the right to personal protection.
Legal experts have weighed in, pointing out that under Nigerian law, displaying a weapon in public (real or fake) may amount to intimidation or constitute a public order offence.
Similarly, driving an unregistered vehicle contravenes traffic regulations.
The ongoing investigation will seek to determine whether the object qualifies as a firearm under Nigerian law and whether the vehicle’s unregistered status constitutes a legal violation.
Adefarasin could face legal consequences if it is established that he breached any laws relating to public safety or firearm possession.
For now, Pastor Adefarasin remains a subject of police inquiry, and the Lagos Command has urged the public to refrain from speculation while the investigation proceeds.
With the pastor promising to clarify matters during his next sermon, all eyes remain on both law enforcement and the pulpit for the next chapter in this unfolding controversy.
