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The Lagos State Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court in Ikeja has handed down a life sentence to Bishop Oluwafeyiropo Daniels, a clergyman convicted of raping a pastor in his church, “I Reign Christian Ministry,” in June 2020.
In delivering the verdict on January 26, Justice Rahman Oshodi expressed belief in the complainant’s testimony and the uncontradicted direct evidence provided by other witnesses during the trial, despite the defendant’s denials.
The court affirmed that the prosecution successfully established all the elements of rape under section 260(2) of the criminal laws of Lagos State, 2015.
However, Justice Oshodi acquitted the clergyman of a second count related to allegedly raping another church member at his home in 2020. The court held that the prosecution failed to prove the elements of the use of force, fear of harm by the complainant, and misrepresentation by the defendant, which are necessary to establish guilt in the offense of rape beyond a reasonable doubt.
As part of the sentencing, the court ordered the convict’s name to be registered in the Lagos State sex offenders register. Additionally, the cleric is to serve his life sentence at the Nigeria Correctional Center, specifically at the Kirikiri Maximum Facility, where he is currently held.
According to the judge, the cleric, utilizing his dominant character and position, sexually violated 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,” remarked the judge.
