LAGOS, Nigeria – Serious allegations have emerged against Dr. Daniel Olukoya, founder of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM), as a former minister within the church claims he used hypnotic techniques to manipulate and assault women during counseling sessions.
Funke Ashekun, a Nigerian social media influencer who spent nearly 20 years at MFM, detailed disturbing experiences in an interview with SaharaReporters. Ashekun alleges that Olukoya employed a technique of physical contact and direct eye contact to "hypnotize" her during what was supposed to be a routine meeting.
"Without warning, Olukoya pulled me close and placed his forehead against mine," Ashekun recounted. "He then said, 'Look straight into my eyes.' The moment I did, I felt something very unsettling-almost hypnotic."
Ashekun claims that after moving to the U.S., she began receiving messages from other women reporting similar experiences, with some allegedly losing consciousness during these encounters.
Even more concerning, Ashekun alleges that Olukoya targeted vulnerable women – young girls, single mothers, and those facing financial difficulties – under the guise of spiritual deliverance, luring them into his private office and restroom.
It's important to note that MFM and Olukoya have previously denied allegations of misconduct. In 2020, the church dismissed claims of fraud and land-grabbing as "false and malicious". Olukoya has also taken legal action against media outlets for alleged defamation in the past.
As of now, MFM has not responded to these latest allegations. The claims, if substantiated, could have serious implications for the church and its leadership.