According to the CCYF, it all boils down to alleged repeated violations of bail conditions and a barrage of online attacks directed at Pastor Paul Enenche. They claim that Obonyilo, who was initially arrested and released on bail earlier this year under Nigeria’s Cybercrime Act, allegedly resumed his online crusade against the pastor. This included a wave of defamatory posts on Facebook and an interview on YouTube where he made what the CCYF calls “serious and unsupported accusations.”
In a press statement released by the group, National Coordinator James Paul Adama clarified that the re-arrest, which took place at a public event in Abuja on Thursday, July 4, 2025, was carried out based on a legitimate court warrant. The CCYF was keen to distance Pastor Enenche from the situation, emphasizing that the arrest wasn’t a personal vendetta but rather a response to a petition filed by the CCYF, who say they are simply acting as a responsible body protecting the Church from online abuse.
“Unfortunately, after his release, Mr. Obonyilo didn’t stick to the rules,” the CCYF’s statement read. “He went back to attacking the cleric online, spreading lies, and then gave an interview where he made some serious, unproven claims.” The group also pointed out that Obonyilo had failed to appear in court on two occasions, ultimately leading the court to revoke his bail and issue a warrant for his arrest.
The CCYF didn’t mince words, stating that those criticizing the re-arrest should understand the difference between constructive criticism and what they call “serial blackmail.” They believe Obonyilo’s actions went beyond acceptable criticism and were deliberate attempts to damage reputation, actions that demand legal recourse.
Furthermore, the CCYF wants to make it clear that their actions are not targeting any single individual, but rather form part of a larger strategy to safeguard the Church’s integrity. They highlighted previous interventions in similar cases involving defamatory content against other prominent religious figures, including Pastor E.A. Adeboye and Pastor Korede Komaiya. Their stance is clear: “Freedom of expression doesn’t mean you can destroy someone’s reputation without consequences.”
Obonyilo is now back in custody and is expected to face trial. The CCYF concluded their statement by reiterating their commitment to combating online defamation through legal means and preserving the dignity of Church leadership in Nigeria. The story is ongoing, and it serves as a stark reminder of the complexities of online speech, the weight of accusations, and the need for responsible conduct, especially in the digital age.
