Makurdi Magistrate Court Orders Remand of Pastor Accused of Sexual Assault
A magistrate’s court in Makurdi, Benue State, has ordered that 34-year-old pastor Kelvin Imo be remanded at the Correctional Centre in Makurdi following allegations of sexual assault against a church member.
Residing at No. 5 Gboko Road, Makurdi, Mr. Imo faces charges related to the alleged rape but was not asked to enter a plea as the presiding Chief Magistrate, Kevin Mbanongun, declared the court lacked jurisdiction over the case.
The matter has been adjourned to October 8 for further proceedings.
Inspector Friday Kanshio, the prosecuting officer, informed the court that the case was brought to the attention of the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Makurdi through a formal complaint submitted by the victim on September 2.
According to the victim’s statement, she visited the Living Faith Church branch located opposite Coca-Cola Camp along Km 5 Gboko Road in Makurdi on April 22 seeking prayer and counselling from the accused pastor.
The complainant alleged that during the prayer session, after the pastor wiped her face with a handkerchief, she suddenly felt weak and was unable to resist as the pastor then forced himself upon her within the church premises without her consent.
Following the complaint, Mr. Imo was taken into police custody for further investigation.
The alleged act is said to be in violation of Section 284 of the Benue State Penal Code Laws, 2004.
