A Kwara State High Court in Ilorin has sentenced a pastor to life imprisonment for the sexual assault of minors. The trial judge, while delivering the judgment described the convict’s actions as a heinous betrayal of trust and a grave violation of the sanctity of childhood.

The prosecution proved that the pastor exploited his position of authority within his church to groom and assault several children over a prolonged period. The court relied on forensic evidence and the courageous testimonies of the survivors to secure the conviction. In addition to the life sentence, the judge ordered that the convict’s name be registered in the National Sexual Offender Register, ensuring he is permanently barred from working with vulnerable groups.

This ruling has been lauded by child rights advocates and the Kwara State Ministry of Justice as a significant victory in the fight against sexual and gender-based violence.

Government officials emphasized that the verdict serves as a stern warning that no individual, regardless of their religious or social standing, is above the law when it involves the abuse of minors.