The Lagos State Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court in Ikeja has sentenced Bishop Oluwafeyiropo Daniels to life in prison for raping a pastor in his church, “I Reign Christian Ministry,” in June 2020.
Additionally, Mr. Daniels has been found guilty of sexually assaulting two other members of his church and has been sentenced to three years in prison.
Justice Rahman Oshodi, delivering the judgment, expressed belief in the complainant’s testimony and other witnesses who provided direct evidence, which remained uncontradicted throughout the trial, despite the defendant’s denials.
The court concluded that the prosecution successfully proved all the elements of rape under section 260(2) of the criminal laws of Lagos state, 2015.
However, the defendant was acquitted of the second count, involving the alleged rape of another church member at his home in 2020. The court cited the prosecution’s failure to establish the elements of the use of force, fear of harm by the complainant, and misrepresentation by the defendant to prove guilt in the offence of rape beyond reasonable doubt.
As part of the judgment, the court ordered the convict’s name to be registered in the Lagos State sex offenders register. The defendant is also mandated to serve his jail term at the Nigeria Correctional Center, specifically at the Kirikiri Maximum Facility, where he is currently detained.
In the judge’s words, the cleric exploited his dominant character and position to sexually violate two members of his church.
“Rape carries a mandatory life imprisonment and sexual assault carries a jail term of three years, which can’t alleviate the harm on your victims.
In exercising the mandatory sentencing, the court said the convict poses a significant risk to the society.”
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