BENIN CITY, NIGERIA — Legal counsel to Apostle Kelechi, Barrister Douglas Ogbankwa, has dismissed allegations that former Southern Region II Pastor of Omega Fire Ministries, Dr. Azeme Azena, is being subjected to intimidation, insisting that available facts contradict the narrative being circulated in some quarters.
Speaking with journalists in Benin City, Ogbankwa said Dr. Azena is being portrayed publicly as a victim despite evidence indicating that he initiated legal proceedings against Apostle Kelechi before any counteraction was taken.
According to the lawyer, Dr. Azena first instituted a defamation suit against Apostle Kelechi over comments relating to what he described as matters of public Christian integrity. He further stated that the former pastor also approached law enforcement authorities and sought police intervention in the dispute.
Ogbankwa explained that his client subsequently responded through lawful channels by defending himself in court, pursuing the enforcement of his fundamental human rights, and reactivating a previously existing petition against Dr. Azena in Abuja.
The legal practitioner also rejected reports linking the General Overseer of Omega Fire Ministries, Apostle Johnson Suleman, to the ongoing legal dispute.
“It is false to claim that Apostle Johnson Suleman has a petition against Dr. Azeme Azena. The issues in dispute are strictly between Dr. Azeme Azena and Apostle Kelechi,” Ogbankwa stated.
He expressed concern over what he described as inaccurate and misleading reports being circulated in sections of the media, urging members of the public to rely on verified facts rather than speculation.
According to him, the matter is already before competent courts of jurisdiction, making it inappropriate for individuals or groups to attempt to shape public perception through propaganda, misinformation, or extrajudicial commentary.
Ogbankwa called on all parties involved, as well as members of the public, to allow the judicial process to run its course, stressing that the courts remain the appropriate forum for resolving the dispute.
He disclosed that two separate matters relating to the case are currently pending before the courts, including a suit before the Federal High Court and another before the Edo State High Court in Benin City.
The lawyer maintained that his client remains committed to pursuing all legal remedies available under the law while continuing to respect the authority and independence of the judiciary.
