The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) effected the arrest of Prophet Adeniyi Abiodun James, the General Overseer of CAC Freedom City Prophetic and Deliverance Ministry, Ilorin, on Tuesday, April 2, 2024. This action follows allegations of fraudulent activities amounting to N3,980,000 (Three Million, Nine Hundred and Eighty Thousand Naira) against him by a member of his congregation.
The victim, Mr. Oluwole Babarinsa, lodged a formal complaint with the Commission, detailing how Prophet James purportedly exploited him during a church gathering in 2021. According to Babarinsa’s account, the prophet claimed to have received a divine revelation regarding his potential relocation abroad. Subsequently, an agreement was purportedly struck between them, with promises of facilitating Babarinsa’s relocation to Canada.
Under this arrangement, Prophet James allegedly solicited sums amounting to N1.7 million for processing fees and an additional N2.5 million for flight tickets and travel documents. To meet these demands, Babarinsa resorted to liquidating some of his assets and obtaining loans, amassing the required N3,980,000, which he handed over to the prophet.
However, despite the substantial financial investment, Babarinsa’s relocation plans failed to materialize, prompting him to demand a refund. Despite repeated appeals, Prophet James reportedly failed to fulfill his commitment, leaving Babarinsa financially and emotionally distressed.
As the investigation unfolds, the suspect will face legal proceedings in accordance with the law.
