Press Statement by the Concerned Christian Youth Forum (CCYF) on the Re-arrest of Mr. Peter Obonyilo (aka Enenche Enenche)

Press Statement by the Concerned Christian Youth Forum (CCYF) on the Re-arrest of Mr. Peter Obonyilo (aka Enenche Enenche)

**Abuja, Nigeria – July 8, 2025** – The Concerned Christian Youth Forum (CCYF) clarifies the circumstances surrounding the re-arrest of Mr. Peter Obonyilo, also known as Enenche Enenche, on Thursday, July 4, 2025, during a public event in Abuja.  This statement addresses the ongoing concerns and misinterpretations surrounding this legal matter.

Background:

Mr. Obonyilo repeatedly utilized online platforms to disseminate false information, incite division, and defame Pastor Paul Enenche and his ministry. 

The CCYF, a registered and law-abiding organization dedicated to protecting the integrity of the Church, filed a formal petition with the Nigerian Police under the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act.  Subsequent police investigation led to Mr. Obonyilo’s initial arrest and subsequent remand in prison pending trial.

Several respected individuals and institutions, including traditional rulers and political leaders from Idoma land, intervened, advocating for his release on the grounds of peace and reconciliation. 

Mr. Obonyilo was granted bail under the strict condition that he cease his public attacks against Pastor Enenche and attend all scheduled court appearances.  His sureties provided guarantees for his compliance.

Violation of Bail Conditions and Re-arrest:

Despite the bail conditions, Mr. Obonyilo immediately resumed his online attacks.  He published numerous defamatory posts on his Facebook page and participated in an interview on the KAA Truth YouTube channel, where he made unsubstantiated and serious allegations against Pastor Enenche and his ministry.  It is important to note that Pastor Enenche has not responded to these attacks.

Furthermore, Mr. Obonyilo failed to appear in court on two separate occasions, resulting in the revocation of his bail.

He subsequently mocked the court and the police on social media, openly defying authorities to arrest him.  Following weeks of evasion, law enforcement apprehended him at the Abuja event pursuant to the outstanding warrant. He is currently back in lawful custody.

Clarification:

The CCYF categorically states that Pastor Paul Enenche had no involvement in Mr. Obonyilo’s arrest, either initially or recently.

This is purely a legal matter between Mr. Obonyilo and the Nigerian Police, initiated by the CCYF’s petition to protect the reputation of the Church.  Any further attempts to implicate Pastor Enenche will be considered the dissemination of injurious falsehoods and will be met with the full force of the law.

The CCYF has previously addressed similar issues with other bloggers who defamed Christian leaders, achieving amicable resolutions in several cases, including instances involving Pastor E.A. Adeboye (Redeemed Christian Church of God) and Pastor Korede Komaiya. 

This demonstrates the CCYF’s commitment to upholding the integrity of the entire Body of Christ, not just specific individuals or churches. Mr. Obonyilo’s recalcitrance distinguishes his case.

Freedom of Expression vs. Defamation:

The CCYF firmly believes that freedom of expression does not grant license to defame or destroy the reputations of others without consequences.  The Church and its leaders deserve the same protection afforded to other institutions and individuals in a civil society. 

We differentiate between constructive criticism and malicious, unfounded attacks. Mr. Obonyilo’s actions constitute the latter.

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Those criticizing the re-arrest as intolerance of criticism should understand the difference between legitimate criticism and malicious defamation. 

We encourage those who are genuinely concerned to engage in constructive dialogue, not malicious attacks.  Those who remained silent during Mr. Obonyilo’s attacks but now condemn his re-arrest are urged to support him through the appropriate legal channels, rather than merely expressing performative outrage.

Conclusion:

The CCYF remains steadfast in holding accountable individuals who misuse social media to spread hate, falsehoods, or defame Christian leaders.  This case underscores the importance of responsible online conduct and the need to uphold the rule of law.

Contact:

Paul James Adama

National Coordinator

Concerned Christian Youth Forum (CCYF)

Abuja, Nigeria.