The Imo State High Court has sentenced Pastor Desmond Eke, the founder of Deliverance Ministry of the Good Shepherd, to eight years in prison for raping the wife of a church member. The court, presided over by Justice T.N. Nzeukwu, found Pastor Eke guilty of breaching trust and committing rape.
Pastor Eke, based in Umuihita Avu, Owerri West LGA, was accused of administering a stupefying substance to the victim, making her dizzy and unable to resist. According to the prosecution, led by Chioma Emuka, the victim regained consciousness during the assault.
The prosecution revealed that the pastor manipulated the 25-year-old woman by claiming his semen was “holy” and capable of delivering her from a supposed marine spirit. This deceitful act violated the trust she had placed in him as a spiritual leader.
Justice Nzeukwu convicted Pastor Eke on two charges: breaching trust and rape. However, he was acquitted on the third charge related to causing injuries during the assault. The judge noted that the lack of resistance due to the victim’s unconscious state meant no physical injuries could be confirmed.
Defense counsel, Ohaka, representing Nwaneri of Dauda Chambers, argued for leniency, highlighting Pastor Eke’s good behavior during the trial. He suggested probation instead of a full prison sentence.
This case marks the first prosecution under the Violent Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act in Imo State, spearheaded by the civil society organization Onurube. Marjorie Ezihe, the convener of Onurube, praised the court’s decision, expressing hope that the conviction would deter similar acts of sexual violence.
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