Shola Akinyele
Popular preacher and founder of House on the Rock Church, Pastor Paul Adefarasin, has officially responded to the trending video that appeared to show him brandishing what many believed to be a firearm. In a carefully worded address to his congregation, Adefarasin denied carrying a weapon, calling the entire episode a “false accusation” and “an organised strategy to make money through clickbait.”
“I was falsely accused, and I’m hurt. This is not merely an attack it’s a strategy,” the pastor said, visibly emotional. “It’s all designed to grab attention, generate outrage, and monetise clicks.”
The now-viral clip, which shows Pastor Adefarasin confronting a content creator, had sparked heated debate across social media. Many viewers pointed out that the object in his hand resembled a Smith & Wesson 9mm or Walther PPK, both of which are compact handguns. However, the clergyman stopped short of naming or describing the item, insisting only that it was not a gun.
“Even if the man of God is saying the truth, where is the police investigation report?” tweeted @vdmempire, a prominent online personality. “Why didn’t he say what it actually was?”
Critics argue that Adefarasin’s statement dodged the most crucial question: What exactly was he holding? Some speculate it could have been a taser, pepper spray, or a stun gun—all still considered weapons under Nigerian law. His refusal to clarify has led to even more speculation, especially among Nigerians demanding transparency.
“We saw something, sir. And all we’re asking is: what did we see?” one user commented on X (formerly Twitter), accusing the pastor of hiding behind religious influence and avoiding real accountability.
Still, Adefarasin received a standing ovation from his congregation, many of whom praised his handling of the situation. Observers, however, criticised the response, questioning the role of critical thinking within religious spaces.
“Medical doctors, professors, DSS agents—all clapping without getting a straight answer. That’s the power of religion,” another commenter lamented online.
Comedian Akpororo came to the pastor’s defense, saying Lagos is unpredictable and that anyone could carry self-defense tools in today’s climate.
“Even if what he was holding was pepper spray or a taser, everybody dey guide for Lagos streets. As for the boy wey video am, you were warned,” Akpororo said in a video post.
While Adefarasin’s supporters believe the controversy is being fueled by political biases particularly from the Obidient movement over the 2023 elections—many Nigerians are still demanding clarity.
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