The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Owohunwa Jimoh, has stated that under Nigerian law, pointing a stun gun at another person constitutes a criminal offence, even though the device is non-lethal
Jimoh made the remark during an appearance on Sunrise Daily, a Channels Television programme, where he gave an update on the police investigation involving Paul Adefarasin, Senior Pastor of House on the Rock Church.
Adefarasin was recently invited by police over a viral video showing him holding an object that many believed to be a firearm. The police have since confirmed that the device was a stun gun.
“Nothing is an offence under the law except what the law defines as an offence. Even under the Firearms Act, if you fashion a weapon out of wood or any other material and use it in the guise of a firearm to dispossess someone, it qualifies as armed robbery,” Jimoh explained.
“So, pointing a stun gun at someone and creating fear at that moment is an offence. The police are acting strictly within the law,” he added.
Jimoh said the stun gun recovered from Adefarasin falls under prohibited riot control equipment as defined by Nigerian law.
Though the pastor has been granted bail, the commissioner confirmed that the investigation is still ongoing.
“He honoured our invitation. A letter was sent to him. In fact, we had already prepared a warrant of arrest in case he declined. But he turned himself in and was interviewed by investigators who were already assigned to the case,” Jimoh said.
The police are also looking to question the individual seen in the video, who was allegedly threatened by the device.
“It’s been suggested that the person he pointed the device at is a content creator. We’ve identified his address and will be taking his statement soon,” he said.
Jimoh assured that the outcome of the investigation would be made public.
The incident stems from a video that surfaced earlier this month, showing Adefarasin inside a Range Rover, holding a black object while addressing someone outside the vehicle. The clip sparked controversy online, with many assuming he was brandishing a firearm.
In response, Adefarasin denied the allegations, writing on his X handle:
“You might be aware of a video circulating on social media showing me in what some have misunderstood as brandishing a firearm. I want to assure you — that was certainly not a firearm, and at no point did I point such at anyone.”
Follow Us on Facebook – @LadunLiadi; Instagram – @LadunLiadi; Twitter – @LadunLiadi; Youtube – @LadunLiadiTV for updates
OK