A former armed robber who spent more than 25 years in prison for repeatedly targeting churches has shared his personal journey from a life of crime to repentance and evangelism.
Temitope Kolawole, a native of Ekiti State but raised in Ondo State, revealed in an interview that during his criminal years he would insist on praying before attempting to rob churches. He explained that, unlike many of his accomplices who relied on charms, he believed prayer brought protection and guidance before each operation even though those acts were illegal and harmful.
Kolawole said he began stealing as early as age seven, was first arrested at 17, and ultimately spent multiple periods in prison, totaling about 25 years and seven months behind bars. It was while serving time that he gained deeper exposure to violence and learned how to use firearms, which later marked his progression into more serious crimes.
Despite being arrested numerous times after his first release in 1990, his outlook changed in 2021 following a moment that he described as a spiritual awakening. On the day he was preparing for yet another robbery, he found a piece of paper titled “One Day” that moved him emotionally and spiritually.
After contacting the person who left the note, Kolawole said he prayed and was encouraged to turn his life around. Since then, he has not committed any crime and now works as an evangelist, sharing his testimony and preaching the gospel.
Kolawole now attends the Royal Church Ministry in Ikorodu, Lagos, and also preaches independently and in prisons to encourage reform and redemption.
He also described his struggles after leaving prison, particularly in finding stable employment due to his criminal record, and the personal toll it took on his family life, including the temporary loss and eventual reunification with his young son.
While his past crimes including robbing churches and homes in Nigeria and neighbouring countries remain a serious part of his history, Kolawole’s story now focuses on repentance and helping others avoid the path he once walked.
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