A tragic incident unfolded at the Grace of Comfort Parish of the Celestial Church of Christ in Ile-Ife, Osun State, where the Most Senior Evangelist Morris Fadehan was fatally attacked by his assistant, Lekan Ogundipe, following a series of disputes, particularly over a woman.
Reports from Vanguard indicate that Ogundipe ambushed Fadehan within the church premises and brutally assaulted him while the pastor was in prayer at the altar. Allegedly, Ogundipe stabbed him multiple times in the head, drove a nail through his ear and nose, and ultimately dragged his lifeless body from the altar, wrapped it in clothes, and set it on fire.
During the violent altercation, Ogundipe also sustained injuries on his hand, while the pastor managed to inflict scratches on his face before succumbing to the attack.
The incident follows ongoing tensions between the two, with Fadehan expressing dissatisfaction with Ogundipe’s behavior, particularly regarding financial matters and immoral conduct. Despite his intentions to dismiss Ogundipe as his assistant, Fadehan had planned to consult with church elders before taking action.
Pa Olafare, purported owner of the church, recounted the events, detailing previous complaints against Ogundipe’s behavior, including an assault on a prophetess in the church. Ogundipe had also allegedly falsely claimed a relationship with the woman, leading to further conflicts.
Ewa, the prophetess, recounted her ordeal, stating that she had been harassed and assaulted by Ogundipe, leading to a physical altercation that was intervened by an elderly woman. Fadehan subsequently rebuked Ogundipe for his actions before the tragic incident unfolded.
Osun State Police Command Spokesperson, Yemisi Opalola, confirmed that the suspect is in police custody for further investigation. Upon arriving at the scene, police found the deceased’s body with signs of violence, prompting an autopsy at Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital (OAUTH).