The Lagos State Police Command has granted administrative bail to Pastor Paul Adefarasin, the Senior Pastor of House on the Rock Church, following his appearance for questioning over a viral video showing him with a gun-like object in traffic.
Police spokesperson CSP Benjamin Hundeyin confirmed Tuesday night that the object in question was recovered and identified as a stun gun, a prohibited anti-riot device under Nigerian law. “It is not a lethal weapon or a conventional firearm,” Hundeyin clarified to reporters, addressing widespread speculation over the incident.
The controversy erupted earlier this month when a video clip began circulating on social media, allegedly showing Adefarasin holding what appeared to be a handgun while seated in his vehicle during a traffic jam. The footage, believed to have been captured by a TikTok influencer known for filming luxury cars, ignited public outrage and calls for an investigation.
In response to the growing backlash, Pastor Adefarasin voluntarily turned himself in at the Lagos Police Command on Tuesday morning. He was interrogated and made a cautionary statement to investigators before being granted administrative bail pending the conclusion of the investigation.
Despite the viral claims, Adefarasin took to his social media platforms to deny brandishing a firearm or threatening anyone. He maintained that the item was neither a gun nor pointed at another individual, dismissing suggestions of intimidation or misconduct.
As the police continue their investigation, the case has stirred renewed debate over the use of self-defense devices, even non-lethal ones, by civilians in Nigeria—particularly high-profile figures.
What’s Next?
Authorities have not indicated whether charges will be filed. For now, Pastor Adefarasin remains under scrutiny as investigators work to determine whether any laws were violated by his possession and public display of the stun gun.