By Ebinum Samuel
Operatives of the Ilaro Division of the Ogun State Police Command have arrested a suspect, Adewale Ogoemi Arojah, for allegedly impersonating a renowned cleric on Facebook and defrauding unsuspecting members of the public of millions of Naira under the guise of offering spiritual assistance and prayers.
According DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the Police spokesman, the arrest followed a report lodged on 3 October 2026 by one Muyiwa Akogun, popularly known on Facebook as “Prophet Dr. Muyiwa Akogun,” who alerted the police that members of the public had been complaining about fraudulent activities being perpetrated in his name through a duplicated Facebook profile.
Upon receipt of the complaint, the Divisional Police Officer, Ilaro Division, immediately detailed intelligence and detective operatives to track down the perpetrator. Through sustained technological monitoring and intelligence-led analysis, the suspect was tracked to a nearby village in Ajegunle, via the Ilaro/Ibogun axis, where he was successfully apprehended.
During a rigorous interrogation, the suspect confessed to impersonating the real Prophet Akogun on Facebook. He admitted to using the cleric’s identity to deliver fake prophecies and offer prayer services to vulnerable individuals, thereby defrauding victims residing both within Nigeria and in the diaspora.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect systematically targeted victims seeking spiritual assistance on the said prophet’s Facebook page, gains their trust and swindled them of funds amounting to over ₦18 million.
The suspect has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Eleweran, Abeokuta, for further diligent investigation to ascertain the extent of the crime, identify potential accomplices, and ensure possible prosecution.
The swift arrest highlights the Ogun State Police Command’s resolve to dismantle online fraud networks, curb identity theft, and deny cybercriminals safe space to operate across the state.
The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, psc, FCSS, MNIPR, commended the Ilaro operatives for their vigilance, tactical discipline, and swift response, reaffirming the Command’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding citizens from digital and physical threats.
The Command advises members of the public to exercise caution and due diligence when engaging with religious leaders or public figures on social media platforms. Citizens are urged to verify account authenticity and refrain from transferring money to unverified individuals for spiritual remedies or promises.
Members of the public are encouraged to report cybercrime, impersonation, or any suspicious activities through the Gateway Shield Toll-Free Line: 0800 000 9111, or via 09164859299 and 09154293464.
