“It Was Pigeon’s Blood, Not Theirs” — Pastor Defends Ritual After Whipping 20 Children in Church

A Nigerian pastor has been arrested after a disturbing video surfaced online, showing him whipping about twenty children with palm tree leaves during what he called a spiritual cleansing ritual.

The incident, which took place during a three-day deliverance session, triggered outrage nationwide after the footage showed terrified children flinching and crying as the cleric struck them repeatedly.

Viral Video Sparks Police Action

The video quickly caught the attention of the Nigerian Police Force, who tracked down and detained the pastor, identified as Ifediorah Joseph.

In a statement captured by Channels Television, Joseph admitted performing the act but insisted the footage had been “misinterpreted.”

“The children did not undergo severe beatings,” he said. “The blood stains seen on their bodies were not theirs — it was from a pigeon. I used the pigeon’s blood as part of the cleansing.”

Pastor’s Defense: “It’s a Spiritual Tradition”

Joseph explained that in his ministry, the use of pigeon’s blood was symbolic — meant to “wash away spiritual impurities” and protect children from evil spirits. He claimed the whipping was not intended to harm, but to complete the ritual.

However, child welfare advocates strongly disagree. They say such practices are abusive, violate children’s rights, and have no place in a modern society.

Children in Protective Custody

Police confirmed that all the children have been rescued and are now receiving medical and psychological evaluation. The pastor faces possible charges under the Child Rights Act and other relevant laws.

A senior police officer stressed:

“Regardless of whether or not the blood came from a pigeon, subjecting children to such treatment in the name of religion is unacceptable.”