Pastor Bolaji Idowu Denies Involvement in N1.5billion Real Estate Fraud, Claims Only Property Inherited from Parents
By Okafor Joseph Afam, December 4, 2024
Bolaji Idowu, the Lead Pastor of the Harvesters International Christian Center (HICC), has vehemently denied any involvement in a real estate fraud worth N1.5 billion. The renowned cleric, who was recently released from police custody following intervention from influential figures in Nigeria’s political and religious circles, maintains that he has no business dealings in real estate.
The allegations stem from an ongoing investigation by the Nigerian police into a fraudulent real estate scheme linked to Idowu’s church. Reports from SaharaReporters revealed that Idowu was initially arrested by officers of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) in Abuja over the fraud allegations. The scheme allegedly involved several individuals, including one of Idowu’s pastors, who defrauded unsuspecting investors through a real estate investment plan.
According to police sources, substantial amounts of money were traced to Idowu’s personal and church accounts, which prompted the investigation. However, Idowu has consistently denied any knowledge or participation in the fraudulent activities.
In his defense, the pastor emphasized that the only property he owns in Nigeria is the one bequeathed to him by his late parents. He categorically stated, “I am not into real estate. The only property I have is the one my late parents gave me. We are victorious on all sides.”
After spending a night in police custody, Idowu was released late Tuesday following what sources described as pressure from prominent figures in the Aso Rock Villa and influential pastors across the country. These interventions led to his release and a directive for him to repay the money traced to his accounts within two weeks.
The allegations surfaced after investigations revealed that the fraudulent real estate scheme originated with one of Idowu’s pastors. The pastor, who had been involved in the scheme, allegedly used the church’s platform to lure unsuspecting investors into the fraudulent deal.
Idowu, who founded Harvesters International Christian Center in 2003, has seen the church grow to multiple locations across Nigeria, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The church, which attracts over 70,000 worshippers both online and onsite, has a significant following. Idowu is also known for his “Next Level Prayers” platform, where participants are encouraged to build their spiritual lives through prayer.
As the investigation continues, Pastor Idowu remains adamant that he is not involved in any fraudulent activities and that his focus remains on his ministry.
