A High Court sitting in Owerri has sentenced Apostle Desmond Eke to eight years in prison for raping the wife of a church member under the pretense of delivering her from a marine spirit.
The judgement was delivered by Hon. Justice T.N. Nzeukwu on July 31, 2024.
Apostle Desmond Eke, the founder of Deliverance Ministry of The Good Shepherd in Umuihita Avu, Owerri West Local Government Area, was convicted after the prosecution, led by Mrs. Chioma Emuka, proved his guilt beyond reasonable doubt in Suit No HOW/32C/2022.
The 25-year-old victim, a mother of four, was subjected to the assault when Pastor Eke claimed that his ‘holy semen’ was necessary to rid her of a marine spirit threatening her family. The court heard that Eke administered a substance he referred to as holy water and anointing oil, which rendered the victim unconscious. She awoke to find herself being raped by the pastor. When she resisted, Eke insisted that the sexual act was a critical part of her deliverance.
Despite the defense counsel, Mr. Ohaka of Dauda Chambers, pleading for leniency on the grounds of Eke’s good behavior and consistent court attendance, Justice Nzeukwu sentenced him to eight years imprisonment.
The pastor was convicted on two counts: breaching trust and rape. He was, however, acquitted of inflicting injuries on the victim, as the judge noted that the victim’s lack of consciousness during the incident meant she could not have resisted and thus sustained injuries.
The case, initially reported to the police by the Onurube Foundation, a civil society organization, faced numerous pressures and threats but was diligently pursued to its conclusion.
Marjorie Ezihe, the convener of Onurube Foundation, praised the court’s decision, stating that it would serve as a deterrent to others.
