The ongoing public feud between popular Nigerian cleric Pastor Chris Okafor and his former wife, Agnes Bessem Okafor, has escalated dramatically. The ex-wife has issued a fiery rebuttal to the pastor's recent allegations of infidelity, making serious counter-claims about their marriage and challenging him to a paternity test.
Ex-Wife Denies Cheating Allegations, Issues Bold Challenge
During a church service addressing controversies surrounding his ministry, Pastor Chris Okafor alleged that his ex-wife was unfaithful to him. He further called out his own brother, claiming he was a witness to the infidelity.
In a swift and detailed response, Agnes Bessem Okafor has categorically denied these claims. She described the cheating allegation as completely false and dared the pastor to produce the man she allegedly cheated with. "Infidelity cannot be committed by only one person," she stated pointedly in an interview.
Going a significant step further, the mother of four challenged Pastor Chris Okafor to conduct DNA tests on all her children to confirm their paternity. This bold move shifts the narrative and places the burden of proof back on the cleric.
Reasons for Leaving: Assault and a Dramatic Exit
Bessem provided her account of the marriage's dissolution, stating unequivocally that she was the one who walked out. She recalled a tense final moment where she left through the back door after the cleric allegedly refused to let her go.
"He held onto my luggage in an attempt to stop me, but I eventually left," she recounted. Beyond this dramatic exit, she cited more grave reasons for ending the union. Bessem alleged that she left the marriage after years of assault and called on the police to reopen a past kidnapping case involving the pastor to verify its authenticity.
Public and Fan Reactions Pour In
The public exchange has ignited a firestorm of reactions on social media and among fans. Many have taken sides, with a significant number criticizing the pastor's decision to air the matter publicly from the altar.
Fan comments on social media reflect a mix of support for the ex-wife and criticism of the cleric:
- @madunora_ify shared a personal connection: "I love what is happening.... Someday, God will expose my ex-husband too and oh, he's equally a pastor."
- @iam_dongee called for action: "This pastor should be suspended first. He's not fit to lead."
- @olu_flex suggested a broader cover-up: "Everyone shouting CAN, u think they don’t know each other’s secret. Dey there."
This controversy also intersects with separate allegations made by actress Doris Ogala, who has previously accused the cleric in online videos regarding their own failed relationship. Ogala recently flaunted dollar gifts she claimed were from Pastor Okafor, adding another layer to the ongoing saga.
The situation remains unresolved, with Agnes Bessem Okafor's demands for DNA tests and a police investigation presenting a direct challenge to Pastor Chris Okafor's narrative. The public awaits any further response from the cleric or developments in this deeply personal yet very public dispute.
