Pastor Adefarasin denies allegation of gun use in viral traffic video

DDM News

Senior Pastor of House on the Rock, Paul Adefarasin, has responded to a viral video that sparked outrage on social media.

The video allegedly shows the cleric raising what appears to be a firearm at a motorist while in traffic.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that the footage shows a driver identifying Adefarasin and approaching his vehicle.

In the clip, the pastor winds down his window and appears to lift an object, causing widespread speculation and criticism.

Social media users were quick to interpret the object as a gun, accusing the pastor of threatening a civilian.

Amid growing backlash, Pastor Adefarasin issued a public statement on Saturday to clarify the incident.

He denied ever brandishing a firearm or pointing such an object at anyone during the encounter.

“You might be aware of a video which has been circulating on social media showing me in what some have misunderstood as brandishing a firearm,” Adefarasin stated.

He added, “I want to assure you of this, that was certainly not a firearm, and at no point did I point such at anyone.”

The pastor described the entire situation as a case of “mischief” aimed at misleading the public and damaging his reputation.

He acknowledged the public concern generated by the incident and said it would be briefly addressed in Sunday’s 9:00 a.m. church service.

“We understand the concern that this accusation may have caused, and we will speak briefly to this mischief during the 9:00 a.m. service tomorrow,” Adefarasin noted.

As of the time of this report, House on the Rock has not released further footage or additional context about the controversial video.

The church leadership has also not issued an official statement aside from the pastor’s comments.

Pastor Adefarasin expressed gratitude to his followers and supporters for their understanding during the unfolding controversy.

“Thank you for your patience and understanding,” he concluded in his statement.

The incident has drawn mixed reactions from the public, with some calling for a full investigation and others backing the cleric’s explanation.

Critics insist that any object resembling a weapon must be scrutinized, especially when seen in the possession of a public religious leader.

Supporters argue that the video may have been misinterpreted and weaponized by those seeking to tarnish Adefarasin’s image.

This is not the first time a Nigerian religious figure has faced public scrutiny over a viral video or public conduct.

In recent years, the growing use of smartphones and social media has exposed many public figures to instant and widespread judgment.

Many clerics have urged caution in making assumptions based on incomplete footage or misleading narratives.

Legal analysts have suggested that if the object in question is confirmed not to be a weapon, then the controversy may amount to defamation.

Security experts also noted that in an atmosphere of rising insecurity, any display of threatening behavior, real or perceived, raises public alarm.

The video has not been authenticated by any law enforcement agency as of press time.

It remains unclear whether police authorities will investigate the matter or if any official complaint has been filed.

House on the Rock is one of Nigeria’s most influential Pentecostal ministries, with Pastor Adefarasin being a prominent voice in Christian leadership.

His teachings often emphasize personal growth, civic responsibility, and national development.

The latest controversy poses a test to his public credibility and the church’s reputation in a highly sensitive society.

DDM will continue to monitor developments from Sunday’s service and any further clarification from the church.

Meanwhile, the viral video continues to trend across platforms, fueling debate about responsibility, perception, and public conduct.

Observers urge the public to await clearer evidence and official statements before reaching final conclusions on the incident.

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