Paul Adefarasin, the Senior Pastor of House on the Rock Church, has been granted bail following his appearance at the Lagos State Police Command headquarters on Tuesday, June 18, 2025, to answer questions about a widely circulated video showing him brandishing a gun-like object at a road user.
The incident, which sparked intense online backlash, led to calls for accountability from both civic groups and concerned Nigerians, who questioned the legality of a religious leader allegedly brandishing a weapon in public. The controversy began after the video emerged last week, with many viewers believing the object was a firearm.
CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, confirmed via the Command’s official X (formerly Twitter) account that Adefarasin voluntarily reported himself for interrogation and has since been released on bail. The object seen in the video was later identified by police as a stun gun—classified under prohibited anti-riot gear, but not a lethal firearm.
“What was recovered from him is not a lethal weapon or firearm, but a stun gun, which is a prohibited anti-riot equipment,” Hundeyin clarified. He also stated that the police investigation remains ongoing, adding that more details will be released as facts emerge.
Before news of his police appearance broke, Pastor Adefarasin had addressed the incident briefly during a church service, stating emphatically that he was never in possession of a firearm. However, he stopped short of identifying the object, further fueling public speculation.
The police emphasized that while the possession of a stun gun is a serious matter, it does not carry the same legal implications as a live firearm. Nonetheless, experts argue that public use or display of any such device—particularly by a high-profile individual—must be scrutinized to maintain public trust and order.
As the investigation continues, public discourse remains heated. Some followers have voiced support for the clergyman, urging for calm, while others demand transparency and justice in accordance with the law. Legal analysts expect updates in the coming days regarding whether charges will be filed or the case dismissed.
