The Senior Pastor of Word and Miracle Embassy Church, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Joel Oladipupo Abadariki, has strongly denied reports that he is wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for allegedly defrauding U.S.-based Pastor Esther Paul and her company, Zen Estate and Developer, of over ₦100 million and $100,000.
Reacting to a publication by an online platform, Nigerian News Leader, Abadariki described the allegations as “malicious, misleading, and calculated to destroy my reputation.” He demanded an immediate retraction and apology, threatening to take legal action if the outlet failed to comply.
“How can someone with a known address be running from arrest? I am in my church every day, Monday through Sunday,” Abadariki told journalists.
The cleric explained that his relationship with Paul began when she was introduced to him as a preacher, long before any business dealings. He said she later approached him with a proposal to start a real estate partnership, insisting that “the Lord told her” to work with him.
According to him, the partnership included Paul, her sister Vera Idemudia, and himself as registered directors. While Paul and Idemudia sourced funds abroad, he managed operations in Nigeria.
“The only reason money came to me was because I was on ground. We rented an office, paid staff, and spent funds on construction. I never collected any salary for all my efforts,” he explained.
Abadariki narrated how a plot of land acquired by the company could not be marketed for years, forcing Paul to ask him to sell it. He said the land was later sold to an engineer at the Ministry of Works, though the buyer had yet to complete payment.
On claims that he was evading arrest, the cleric challenged the media platform to provide proof.
“I put the publisher and sponsors of this false report to the strictest proof. If they can show an EFCC invitation letter whether by text or in writing then let them present it,” he said.
He also accused Idemudia of issuing threats against his life over disputes in the partnership.
“I am a full partner in this company, yet profits are shared by others while I shoulder the work. Despite threats and false accusations, the land remains intact and our processes were duly followed,” he maintained.
Abadariki insisted the report was a violation of journalistic ethics and vowed to clear his name in court if necessary.
