The founder of ‘I Reign Christian Ministry,’ Pastor Feyi Daniels, faced the judgment of a High Court in Ikeja, Lagos State, resulting in a life sentence for the heinous crime of raping a church member.
The verdict, delivered by Justice Rahman Oshodi on January 26, 2024, also included a concurrent three-year imprisonment for sexual assault.
Charges and Sentencing:
Pastor Daniels, accused of three counts related to rape, attempted rape, and sexual assault against church members, stood trial before the Lagos State High Court.
The allegations involved sexual offenses committed at his residence in Lekki and on the premises of his church in Ikeja.
The court’s decision sentenced him to life imprisonment, and the three-year term for sexual assault is to run concurrently.
Inclusion in Sexual Offenders Register:
In addition to the prison terms, the court ruled that Pastor Daniels’ name should be registered in the Sexual Offenders Register maintained by Lagos State.
This measure aims to monitor and restrict the activities of individuals convicted of sexual offenses.
Background and Legal Proceedings:
The pastor’s legal troubles began when he was arraigned by the Lagos state government on amended charges related to rape and sexual assault against members of his congregation.
Remanded in prison custody on April 17, 2023, Pastor Daniels faced accusations of sexually assaulting three church members.
Testimony of Assistant Pastor:
During the trial, a 23-year-old assistant pastor, led in evidence by Lagos State counsel Mr. Babajide Boye, recounted her traumatic experiences.
Having joined the church in 2018 after attending a program in Ondo State, she rose to the position of an assistant pastor.
She considered Pastor Daniels her spiritual father but revealed that he raped her twice, first at his residence in Ikota Villa Estate, Lekki, on June 21, 2020.
Impact and Legal Ramifications:
The conviction of Pastor Feyi Daniels sheds light on the prevalence of sexual offenses within religious institutions.
The legal consequences, including a life sentence and registration in the Sexual Offenders Register, underscore the seriousness with which the court addresses such offenses.
This case adds to the growing awareness and legal actions against individuals abusing positions of trust within religious organizations.
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