Police authorities have filed a four-count criminal charge against the Primate of the First African Church Mission, Very Reverend Sunday Oludare Matilukuro, in connection with an alleged assault on a church official in Lagos.

The case, instituted by the Inspector-General of Police through the office of the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 2, Onikan, is before the Lagos State High Court and is registered as LD/27724C/2026.

According to the charge sheet signed by Chief Superintendent of Police Omonyimenle Ijie, Matilukuro and other individuals described as being at large are alleged to have conspired to attack Mr Sunday Soneye, identified as an official of the church, during an incident in Lagos.

The prosecution alleges that the defendants conspired to commit a felony, specifically assault occasioning harm, causing grievous harm, and wounding Mr Soneye.

The charge states that Soneye was beaten to the point of losing consciousness and that he sustained injuries classified as grievous bodily harm and multiple wounds.

Count one of the information concerns conspiracy. Count two alleges assault occasioning harm. Count three charges Matilukuro with causing grievous harm, contrary to Section 245 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State. Count four alleges wounding, contrary to Section 246(a) of the same law.

The police state that the alleged conduct is in breach of Sections 411, 173, 245 and 246(a) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015. These provisions prescribe custodial sentences upon conviction.

The matter has been assigned to Justice Serifat Sonaike of the Lagos State High Court, who is expected to preside over Matilukuro’s arraignment. At arraignment, the charge will be read to the defendant, and he will be required to enter a plea.

Legal analysts observe that the case has institutional implications because it involves the head of a major indigenous church, with potential impact on internal governance, accountability mechanisms and dispute-resolution processes within religious organisations.

Police sources report that investigations are continuing to identify and apprehend the other suspects described as “others at large” in the charge. Following arraignment, the court is expected to address any bail application submitted by the defence.