A 21-year-old woman, identified as Sukura Owodunni, has reportedly suffered severe burns after Pastor Taiwo Odebiyi allegedly attempted a deliverance ritual on her at his Cherubim and Seraphim Maberu Parish in Offin, Sagamu, Ogun State.
The incident occurred on Thursday, August 17, when the victim, Owodunni, visited the church in response to a special prayer invitation from the pastor.
Pastor Odebiyi had instructed Owodunni to acquire Amazing Grace perfume, local eggs, and a candle for the designated prayer session, according to witnesses.
Witnesses recount that during the prayer, the pastor purportedly applied the perfume to the woman’s body and ignited the candle.
Soon after the candle was lit, Owodunni reportedly caught fire, sustaining severe burns on her chest, shoulders, and legs.
Following the incident, the Divisional Police Officer in Adigbe apprehended the pastor on the church premises.
The State Police spokesperson, SP Omolola Odutola, confirmed the incident, stating that an in-depth investigation has been initiated to uncover the circumstances surrounding the case.
Odutola noted that the victim had been taken to a medical facility for treatment but claimed that she was left to pay for her own medical costs.
“Our men have arrested the suspect. The case will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department after the preliminary investigation is perfected,” Odutola added.
