Pastor Sentenced to Eight Years in Prison for Raping Church Member’s Wife in Imo

Justice T.N. Nzeukwu of the Imo State High Court has sentenced Pastor Desmond Eke to eight years in prison for raping a church member’s wife. Eke, the founder of Deliverance Ministry of the Good Shepherd in Umuehieta Avu, Owerri West Local Government Area, was found guilty of exploiting the trust placed in him by his congregation.

The prosecution, led by Chioma Emuka, detailed how Eke administered a stupefying substance to his victim, rendering her dizzy and weak. In this vulnerable state, the woman regained consciousness to find Eke assaulting her. Shockingly, Eke claimed that his actions were meant to “deliver her from a marine spirit.”

Justice Nzeukwu convicted Eke on two counts: breaching trust and rape. However, he was acquitted of the charge related to inflicting injuries during the assault, as the victim was not fully conscious to resist.

Despite pleas for leniency from the defense, citing Eke’s good behavior and request for probation, the court delivered a full sentence. This case marks the first prosecution under the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act in Imo State, following vigorous efforts by the civil society organization Onurube.

Marjorie Ezihe, Onurube’s convener, praised the court’s decision, stating it would serve as a deterrent to others contemplating similar inhumane acts.