Pastor Bolaji Idowu

The Lead Pastor of the Harvesters International Christian Center (HICC), Bolaji Idowu, has been released by the Nigerian Police Force, NPF.

He was released from custody following intervention by influential figures in Aso Rock Villa, the seat of government, and prominent clerics.

Pastor Idowu was arrested by the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) in Abuja over allegations of a N1.5 billion fraud linked to real estate and money laundering. Authorities had earlier stated that he would spend the night in custody while being questioned.

However, according to Sahara Reporters, police sources confirmed his release late Tuesday after significant pressure from high-ranking pastors and officials connected to President Tinubu’s administration.

“Pastor Bolaji was released late in the evening after intervention from Aso Villa and prominent pastors,” a police source disclosed. The pastor has reportedly been ordered to repay the funds traced to his account within two weeks.

The investigation stemmed from claims that one of Pastor Idowu’s associates defrauded individuals through a real estate scheme. Police traced billions of naira from the scheme to the church’s accounts and eventually to Idowu’s personal account.

Founded in December 2003, Harvesters International Christian Center has grown to attract over 70,000 worshippers globally across locations in Nigeria, the UK, and the US. Pastor Idowu is also well-known for his “Next Level Prayers” platform, which encourages participants to build a prayer life.