NSCDC secures life jail for cleric over rape of minors in Kwara

By Ahmed Olayinka

The Kwara State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has secured the conviction of Prophet Ajiboye Abayomi Olayinka, General Overseer of Mission House of Divine Land of Joy and Prayer Ministry, over offences bordering on rape and sexual abuse of minors.

Justice Hammed Aliyu Gegele of the Kwara State High Court, Ilorin, on Wednesday sentenced the cleric to life imprisonment on multiple counts of rape and unlawful sexual intercourse involving underage victims.

The court also handed the defendant an additional 14-year jail term for illegal abortion.

The conviction followed investigations launched by the Gender Unit of the NSCDC Kwara State Command after the suspect was arrested in May 2024 over allegations of sexual abuse and exploitation of minors in Agah Village, Ilorin South Local Government Area of the state.

According to the command, the matter was later transferred to the Kwara State Ministry of Justice after the conclusion of investigations for prosecution.

The NSCDC said the successful prosecution was achieved through collaboration between the command and the Ministry of Justice.

In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASC 1 Ayoola Michael Shola, the NSCDC commended the victims for their courage in speaking out despite alleged intimidation and emotional trauma.

The command also praised officers of its Gender Unit for what it described as professionalism, resilience and diligence throughout the investigation process.

“The Command remains resolute in its commitment to safeguarding children, protecting vulnerable persons, and ensuring that perpetrators of sexual and gender-based violence are brought to justice irrespective of their social, religious or professional status,” the statement said.

The State Commandant of the NSCDC, Abbas Nda Mohammed, also appreciated the Kwara State Ministry of Justice for its commitment and support during the prosecution of the case.