A High Court in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria, has sentenced Prophet Ajiboye Abayomi Olayinka to life imprisonment after convicting him of raping three minor church members and carrying out illegal abortions linked to pregnancies involving the victims.
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The Nigerian cleric, founder of Mission House of Divine Land of Joy and Prayer Ministry located in the Agah, Ganmo area of Ilorin, was also handed an additional 14-year prison sentence for conducting illegal abortions, according to multiple Nigerian news outlets.
Victims Were Allegedly Forced Into Silence
According to court proceedings reported by Nigerian media, prosecutors told the court that the prophet sexually abused three underage female congregants inside the church mission house.
The victims reportedly testified that the cleric applied “anointing oil” to their private parts before forcing himself on them. They also alleged he made them swear secrecy oaths using the Bible and threatened to kill them if they exposed the incidents.
The prosecution reportedly called 12 witnesses during the trial and tendered several exhibits before the court. The charges included criminal conspiracy, unlawful sexual intercourse with minors, illegal abortion, and unlawful possession of firearms under Nigerian law.
Judge Described Prophet As “Pedophile And Philanderer”
Delivering judgment, Justice H.A. Gegele ruled that prosecutors successfully proved the rape and illegal abortion charges beyond reasonable doubt.
The judge reportedly described the defendant as “a pedophile and philanderer whose conduct should be deprecated by all and sundry in society.”
The court also ordered that a pump-action gun recovered from the prophet be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria. However, the court discharged him on a separate bigamy allegation after ruling there was insufficient evidence.
Growing Concern Over Religious Exploitation In Nigeria
The case has sparked intense reactions across Nigerian social media, with many demanding tighter regulation and oversight of churches and self-styled prophets.
Observers say the sentencing reflects growing pressure on Nigerian authorities to crack down on sexual abuse and exploitation allegations involving influential religious leaders.
Nigeria has witnessed several controversial church-related abuse cases over the years, fueling public debate about unchecked spiritual authority and manipulation of vulnerable followers.
Why This Story Matters
The shocking conviction highlights increasing concerns about abuse hidden behind religious influence across parts of Africa. Human rights advocates argue that stronger child protection systems, victim support structures, and accountability mechanisms are urgently needed inside religious institutions.
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