In a dramatic turn of events, Pastor Chris Okafor, the founder of Grace Nation Bible Ministry, has publicly knelt and apologised over the controversy involving Nollywood actress Doris Ogala. The incident occurred during a church service where the cleric addressed the issue directly from the pulpit.
A Pulpit Plea for Forgiveness
Pastor Okafor made a striking gesture by kneeling on the pulpit as he appealed for mercy from his congregation and the public. He admitted that mistakes had been made in the past and tendered a public apology. "A lady called Doris Ogala... mistakes have been made in the past, and I tender an apology to everybody," Okafor stated during the service on December 28, 2025.
However, the pastor was quick to dispute the specific allegations made against him. He claimed that many of the statements circulating were untrue. "But everything that was said is not true. There are so many lies in most of the things that were said," he asserted.
His apology extended directly to the actress and others he may have offended. "To Doris Ogala, I also say sorry. I apologise to everyone whom I have offended. I am ready to make restitution to anyone, any lady or man I have offended," Okafor declared. "I am sorry. Forgive me."
Background of the Dispute
The public apology comes after weeks of escalating accusations from Doris Ogala. The actress had alleged that Pastor Okafor was in a long-term relationship with her and had promised marriage before later getting engaged to another woman. Ogala claimed this situation caused her significant emotional distress and damaged her reputation.
The conflict reached a legal dimension when Ogala, through her lawyers, issued a demand letter to the pastor. She sought ₦1 billion in damages for what she described as a breach of promise and emotional harm. The actress also took her story to social media on multiple occasions, sharing her version of events and sparking widespread online debate.
The situation intensified on December 20, 2025, when Ogala was arrested during a live social media broadcast where she was discussing the matter. She was later released, with reports indicating that efforts were underway to resolve the dispute amicably. Following her release, Ogala confirmed that discussions were ongoing between both parties and expressed openness to a peaceful resolution. She also claimed that an offer of money was made to her to withdraw her statements.
Seeking a New Beginning
In his address, Pastor Chris Okafor described himself as an imperfect man who had experienced a personal change. He asked for prayers from the public instead of condemnation. "I have never been perfect. I have had a new beginning," he said. "I am kneeling before everyone and before the church, asking you to forgive me. You can judge me, but pray for me."
This marked a shift from his earlier remarks to his congregation, where he had emphasised that allegations must be proven and urged the public to avoid rushing to judgment. His latest public apology appears to be a strategic attempt to calm tensions and reset the narrative surrounding the controversy.
As of now, the dispute remains unresolved. With talks reportedly still ongoing between the parties involved, it is unclear whether the matter will culminate in a private settlement or proceed to a courtroom battle. The public will be watching closely to see the final outcome of this highly publicised conflict between a prominent pastor and a Nollywood actress.
