Pastor Paul Adefarasin’s Viral Video: The Shocking Device Revealed as a Non-Lethal Self-Defense Tool

A recent viral video featuring Pastor Paul Adefarasin, the founder of House on the Rock Church, has sparked widespread discussion across Nigeria, particularly on social media platforms like X. In the clip, the prominent pastor was seen holding an object that initially raised eyebrows, with some speculating it could be a firearm. However, a Nigerian lady, among others, has come forward to clarify that the device is not a gun but a non-lethal self-defense tool, likely a stun gun or taser, designed for personal protection in the often unpredictable traffic of Lagos. This revelation has fueled debates about safety, self-defense, and the public perception of such devices in Nigeria.

The Viral Moment

The video in question, which circulated widely on X and other platforms, shows Pastor Adefarasin briefly displaying a handheld device. Its appearance, at a glance, led to speculation among viewers, with some assuming it was a firearm due to its shape and the context of Lagos, a city where security concerns are a daily reality for many. The clip quickly gained traction, with users on X posting varied reactions—some expressing shock, others defending the pastor, and a few questioning the legality and optics of a religious leader carrying such a device.

A Nigerian woman, whose identity remains unverified, posted on X, claiming insider knowledge about the device. She described it as a “shocking device for protection in Lagos traffic” and emphasized that it “doesn’t look like a g*n.” Her post aimed to clarify the misinformation spreading online and redirect the narrative toward the device’s purpose: personal safety in a city known for its challenging security landscape.

What Is the Device?

According to multiple posts on X and statements attributed to Pastor Adefarasin’s camp, the device is a non-lethal self-defense tool, specifically an HS-102 Type Stun Gun or a similar model. Stun guns, also known as tasers, are electroshock devices designed to temporarily incapacitate an attacker by delivering a high-voltage, low-amperage electric shock. Unlike firearms, they are non-lethal and intended for personal protection, making them a popular choice in areas where violent crimes, such as robberies in traffic, are a concern.

The HS-102 Type Stun Gun, as mentioned in some posts, is compact and often equipped with additional features like LED lighting, which could explain why it might not immediately resemble a traditional firearm. Its design allows it to be discreet, fitting into a pocket or bag, which aligns with the Nigerian lady’s description of a device that “doesn’t look like a g*n.” While the video’s quality makes it difficult to confirm the exact model, the consensus among defenders of Adefarasin is that it is a legal, non-lethal tool meant for self-defense.

Context: Safety in Lagos Traffic

Lagos, Nigeria’s bustling commercial capital, is notorious for its heavy traffic, often referred to as “go-slow.” These conditions create vulnerabilities, as commuters can be stuck for hours, making them potential targets for petty theft, carjacking, or more violent crimes. Stories of “one-chance” robbery gangs—criminals posing as commercial drivers to rob passengers—are common, heightening the need for personal security measures.

For high-profile individuals like Pastor Adefarasin, the risks are even more pronounced. Public figures in Nigeria often face targeted threats, including kidnapping or robbery, prompting many to adopt security protocols, including armed escorts or personal defense tools. The use of a stun gun, as opposed to a firearm, could reflect a preference for a less lethal option that still provides protection without escalating situations to deadly force.

Public Reaction and Debate

The video has ignited a polarized debate online. Some X users criticized Adefarasin, arguing that a pastor carrying any form of weapon—lethal or not—sends the wrong message about faith and trust in divine protection. Others defended him, pointing out the harsh realities of Lagos’ security challenges. One user posted, “Lagos traffic is a jungle. Even pastors need to protect themselves. It’s not a gun, it’s a taser. Let’s move on.” Another user questioned, “Why the uproar? If it’s legal and keeps him safe, what’s the issue?”

The controversy also touches on broader issues of legality and cultural attitudes toward self-defense tools in Nigeria. While firearms are heavily regulated, non-lethal devices like stun guns occupy a gray area. Some argue they are a practical solution for civilians who want to stay safe without resorting to deadly force, while others worry about misuse or the potential for such devices to escalate conflicts.

Official Response

Pastor Adefarasin and his team have reportedly denied claims that the device was a firearm, with sources close to the pastor confirming it as a stun gun meant for personal safety. No official statement from House on the Rock Church has been released as of June 9, 2025, but posts on X suggest that the pastor’s team is working to clarify the situation to quell misinformation.

Broader Implications

This incident highlights the complex interplay between personal security, public perception, and the role of influential figures in Nigeria. For many Lagosians, the debate is less about the device itself and more about the realities of living in a city where safety is not guaranteed. The fact that a pastor, typically seen as a symbol of peace and spiritual guidance, feels the need to carry a self-defense tool underscores the pervasive sense of insecurity that many Nigerians face daily.

Moreover, the viral nature of the video demonstrates the power of social media in shaping narratives. A single clip, taken out of context, can spark nationwide debates, with misinformation spreading as quickly as clarifications. The Nigerian lady’s post, for instance, played a key role in reframing the conversation, but it also raises questions about the reliability of unverified sources in shaping public opinion.

Conclusion

The device Pastor Paul Adefarasin was seen holding in the viral video is, by all accounts, a non-lethal self-defense tool, likely a stun gun, intended for protection in Lagos’ challenging environment. While the initial shock of the video led to speculation and criticism, clarifications from the public and those close to the pastor have shifted the narrative toward understanding the practical need for such devices. As Nigeria grapples with ongoing security challenges, this incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between personal safety and public perception, especially for figures like Adefarasin, who are constantly in the spotlight.

For now, the debate continues on X and beyond, but one thing is clear: in a city like Lagos, the need for protection—whether through faith, security personnel, or a stun gun—remains a pressing concern for many.