Prophet Ajiboye Abayomi Olayinka, the General Overseer of Mission House of Divine Land of Joy and Prayer Ministry, has been convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment for rape and unlawful sexual intercourse with minors, alongside a 14-year term for illegal abortion, following a trial at the Kwara State High Court in Ilorin. The judgment was delivered by Justice Hammed Aliyu Gegele on Wednesday, marking a significant legal outcome in a case that drew widespread attention due to the defendant’s religious status and the vulnerability of the victims.
The conviction stemmed from a series of allegations involving the sexual abuse and exploitation of underage girls in Agah Village, located in Ilorin South Local Government Area of Kwara State. Investigations were launched in May 2024 by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), specifically through its Gender Unit, after the suspect was arrested on suspicion of these serious offences. The NSCDC’s thorough probe uncovered evidence that led to the formal transfer of the case to the Kwara State Ministry of Justice for prosecution.
The Ministry of Justice handled the case with diligence, ensuring that all legal procedures were followed, which ultimately resulted in the successful conviction. The court found Olayinka guilty on multiple counts, including rape and unlawful sexual intercourse with minors, and also convicted him for performing an illegal abortion, which carried an additional 14-year sentence. The combined sentences reflect the gravity of the crimes committed and the need to protect children from abuse by those in positions of trust.
Commandant Abbas Nda Mohammed of the NSCDC commended the victims for their courage in coming forward despite facing threats, intimidation, and emotional trauma. He also praised the officers of the Gender Unit for their professionalism and resilience throughout the investigation, which was crucial in building a strong case against the accused. The Commandant expressed appreciation for the Kwara State Ministry of Justice’s cooperation and commitment to justice, noting that their collaboration was instrumental in securing the conviction.
Abbas emphasized that the NSCDC remains steadfast in its mission to protect children and vulnerable individuals, regardless of the perpetrator’s social, religious, or professional standing. He reiterated the agency’s zero-tolerance policy toward sexual and gender-based violence, particularly when minors are involved. The case serves as a powerful reminder that no one is above the law, even those who hold religious authority.
This landmark verdict is expected to send a strong message across Nigeria about the importance of holding perpetrators accountable and safeguarding the rights and safety of children. It also highlights the critical role of law enforcement and judicial institutions in delivering justice, especially in sensitive cases involving abuse of power and trust.
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