Lagos Church Leader Sentenced to Life Imprisonment for Rape

The victim, a 23-year-old assistant to Daniels, bravely came forward to expose the horrifying abuse she endured. The court also handed down an additional three-year sentence for the sexual assault of a 19-year-old member of the church. These sentences are to run concurrently, and Daniels' name will be registered in the Sexual Offenders Register maintained by the state, according to a statement by the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA).

Judge Rahman Oshodi, presiding over the case, did not mince words in describing Daniels as a liar devoid of regard for the truth. The court heard the suspect's defense, where he claimed that three out of the four women accusing him of sexual assault conspired against him. Daniels alleged that one of these women fabricated the accusations due to personal grievances, specifically financial issues.

This verdict follows a series of allegations against the church leader. In May 2023, Daniels was remanded in court for allegedly raping a 25-year-old woman at his Lekki residence. During the trial, the victim testified that the cleric had engaged in sexual acts with her during a prayer session while speaking in tongues.

The court's decision underscores the gravity of rape cases, as the charges against Daniels contravene Section 260 (2) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015. The ruling serves as a powerful message against the abuse of power within religious institutions and highlights the importance of justice for survivors of sexual assault.

The life imprisonment sentence for Feyi Daniels sends a clear message that perpetrators will be held accountable for their actions, regardless of their position within the community. This landmark case sets a precedent for addressing sexual offenses within religious organizations, promoting a safer environment for all members.