Nollywood actress Doris Ogala is now a free woman after spending two days in police custody. Her detention was connected to a highly publicized personal dispute involving Lagos-based cleric, Pastor Chris Okafor of Grace Nation Ministry.
Arrest During Livestream Sparks Panic
The dramatic incident unfolded in real time on Saturday. Ogala was in the middle of an online interview when she revealed that police officers were inside her residence. The interviewer, alarmed, urged her to keep her phone on and questioned whether the officers had presented a warrant. Viewers watched with concern as the actress herself expressed confusion about how the individuals gained entry into her home.
The situation quickly escalated on social media, with many Nigerians and public figures voicing serious concerns for her safety and demanding answers.
Online Controversy and Intervention
The controversy began earlier in the week when Doris Ogala made explosive allegations against Pastor Chris Okafor. She accused the cleric of breaking a promise of marriage and instead marrying another woman, identified as Pearl, on December 16 in Lagos.
Ogala shared several emotional videos online, claiming the relationship spanned years and caused her significant distress. In one since-deleted post, she hinted at possessing private evidence to back her claims.
Media activist Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, became a key figure in the saga. He disclosed that he had spoken with Ogala and received materials from her related to the dispute. In a stern video message, he issued a warning, stating, "I know those who arrested her want to destroy the evidence on her phone. If Doris Ogala does not return home by Tuesday, every piece of evidence she sent me will be released." He demanded guarantees for her safety.
Comedian and former Big Brother Naija star Dee One also commented on the arrest, noting that the actress would now have to pursue her claims through legal avenues.
Release and Gratitude
Ogala was finally released on Monday. She confirmed her freedom through a post on her Instagram page, where she expressed heartfelt thanks to those who intervened on her behalf.
She specifically mentioned human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, as well as VeryDarkMan, whom she referred to as "my ratel king." Her message read, "Thank you, Sowore. Thanks so much to my ratel king."
As of the time of reporting, the Lagos State Police Command has not released an official statement detailing the reasons for her arrest or the conditions of her release. The case has highlighted the intense public and media scrutiny that surrounds personal disputes involving celebrities and religious figures in Nigeria.
