UK-Based Nigerian Pastor and Wife Speak Out After Release by DSS

The United Kingdom based-Nigerian pastor, Tomi Arayomi, and his wife, Tema, have broken their silence following their arrest in Abuja on Friday, April 7,2023, by the Department of State Services (DSS) and subsequent release.

In a statement shared on his Instagram account on Sunday, the pastor revealed that his personal assistant, Emmanuel Ezerika, who was arrested alongside him and his wife, is still in DSS detention.

Arayomi explained that he and his wife were in Abuja to visit one of their branches when they were picked up by six armed agents who did not identify themselves as DSS or any law enforcement agency. He added that they were forced to surrender their mobile phones and were taken to the DSS headquarters where they were locked inside a room with no knowledge of the grounds for their arrest.

The pastor went on to say that his aide’s exact whereabouts are still unknown, and DSS has been elusive with information. However, media and social media pressure forced the DSS to release Arayomi and his wife after a lengthy interrogation.

Concerned for their safety and that of their young children, the couple made the decision to leave Nigeria abruptly. Arayomi stated that the decision was not easy, but they were advised by their board, trustees, colleagues in the ministry, and respective families.

He reiterated their unwavering commitment to Nigeria and the many great leaders they encountered during their time there. Arayomi also expressed gratitude for the support and messages of encouragement they received from friends and leaders who reached out to them.

The pastor ended the statement by saying that they remain resolute and will continue to press, pray, and give God no rest until Nigeria becomes a praise in the earth. He confirmed that they are safe and will work and pray for a new Nigeria, and they look forward to returning to the nation that they have grown to call their home.