LIBERIA – Despite the incarceration of Rev. Emmanuel Nimely, the pastor of the Forky Klon Jlaleh Family Fellowship Church, the congregation proceeded with their regular Sunday service today. The service, led by Assistant Pastor Jestina Miracle Diabe, included praise and worship, seemingly unaffected by the recent events.
Former President George Manneh Weah, who owns the church, and his wife were notably absent from the service as they are currently out of the country. However, congregants sang and danced, seemingly setting aside the fact that their pastor spent his first night at Monrovia Central Prison, commonly known as “Salt Beach.”
Rev. Nimely was jailed on Friday, June 7, 2024, for fraud and human trafficking charges after failing to appear in court with his lawyers and to file a bail bond. His arrest has cast a shadow over the church, yet the congregation’s spirited worship suggested an effort to maintain normalcy.
Rev. Nimely, who was also the Religious Advisor to former President Weah, faces multiple charges including deception, receiving money under false pretense, visa fraud, and suspected human trafficking. The allegations emerged following an investigation initiated after his arrest on June 2, 2024, in the Dwazon Community near Roberts International Airport Highway.
He was detained based on a complaint filed by H. Momo Fortune, Jr., on behalf of several victims. According to police reports, the investigation revealed that in early August 2023, Rev. Nimely collected $970 from each of 130 individuals, totaling $87,300, with the promise of taking them to a church conference in Australia.
Rev. Nimely has vehemently denied the allegations, calling the charges “false and misleading” and claiming to have all necessary documents to prove his innocence. He maintains that his intentions were genuine and that the funds collected were meant for legitimate purposes.
On June 7, 2024, police officers, accompanied by court officers, escorted Rev. Nimely to the Monrovia City Court, where the charges against him were formally presented. The police’s initial press release on June 3, 2024, confirmed his arrest and the ongoing investigation into his activities.
As legal proceedings continue, the case has garnered significant attention due to Rev. Nimely’s prominent position and his close association with former President Weah. The situation highlights broader issues of fraud and human trafficking in the region, underscoring the need for vigilance and accountability within religious and political spheres.
The Forky Klohn Jlaleh Family Fellowship Church, meanwhile, has chosen to focus on their faith and community, continuing their services under the leadership of Assistant Pastor Diabe. The congregation’s response reflects a complex interplay of faith, loyalty, and the challenges of addressing serious allegations within a religious context.
As the church grapples with the allegations against their pastor, the members find themselves navigating a delicate balance between supporting Rev. Nimely and acknowledging the gravity of the charges he faces. The leadership of the church has urged the congregation to remain steadfast in their faith and to trust in the legal process.
Rev. Nimely’s legal troubles come at a time when the church is seeking to expand its outreach and community services. This situation poses a significant challenge to the church’s reputation and its ability to attract new members and donors. The leadership is working to reassure the congregation and the wider community of their commitment to ethical practices and transparency.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the church’s congregation remains hopeful for a resolution that upholds justice and allows them to continue their mission. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity and accountability in religious institutions.
The outcome of Rev. Nimely’s case will have significant implications for the church and its leadership, as well as for the broader community. The church’s ability to navigate this crisis will test the resilience of its members and the strength of its faith.
The Forky Klohn Jlaleh Family Fellowship Church continues to hold services, pray, and support one another during this challenging time, demonstrating their commitment to their faith and community despite the adversity they face.
