The Concerned Christian Youth Forum (CCYF) has explained the circumstances surrounding the re-arrest and remand of Mr. Peter Obonyilo, popularly known as Enenche Enenche in Keffi Correctional Centre, Nasarawa State.
The group stated that his continued violation of bail conditions and persistent cyber attacks on Pastor Paul Enenche led to the latest action by law enforcement authorities.
In a press statement signed by the National Coordinator, James Paul Adama, the group emphasized that the re-arrest of Obonyilo on Thursday, July 4, 2025, at a public event in Abuja, followed a valid court warrant.
The group distanced Pastor Enenche from the development, clarifying that the arrest was not personally instigated by the cleric but stemmed from a petition it filed as a law-abiding body concerned about attacks on the Church.
Obonyilo, who had earlier been arrested and released on bail after being charged under Nigeria’s Cybercrime Act, allegedly violated the terms of his release. According to CCYF, he resumed online attacks against Pastor Enenche, made defamatory posts on Facebook, and granted an interview on a YouTube platform where he made what the group described as “grave and unsubstantiated allegations.”;
“Unfortunately, shortly after his release, Mr. Obonyilo violated the conditions of his bail. He resumed his cyber attacks on the cleric, publishing multiple defamatory posts... He further granted an interview... during which he made several grave and unsubstantiated allegations,”; the statement read.
The group also noted that Obonyilo failed to appear in court on two occasions, prompting the court to revoke his bail and issue a bench warrant. Despite public criticism following the re-arrest, CCYF insisted the move was lawful and necessary.
“Those decrying the re-arrest should educate themselves on the difference between constructive criticism and serial blackmail. What Peter Obonyilo did was not criticism to be tolerated but calculated blackmail that must be addressed by law,”; the forum stated.
The CCYF reiterated that its actions are not targeted at any individual but part of a broader effort to protect the integrity of the Church.
It cited similar interventions in cases involving defamatory content against other prominent Christian leaders, including Pastor E.A. Adeboye and Pastor Korede Komaiya.
“Freedom of expression does not mean the freedom to destroy the character and reputation of others without consequences,”; the statement added.
Mr. Obonyilo has since been returned to custody and is expected to face trial. The CCYF concluded by affirming its commitment to using legal means to confront online defamation and uphold the dignity of Church leadership in Nigeria.
