A landmark verdict was delivered on January 26, 2024, as the Ikeja Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence court sentenced Feyi Daniels, the founder of iReign Christian Ministry, to life imprisonment for the rape of a church member during a disturbing incident that took place at his Lekki residence. The trial judge, Rahman Oshodi, concluded that Daniels, a Lagos-based cleric, was guilty of rape and sexual assault against a female worshipper in 2020.
The victim, whose identity is protected, originally hails from Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State. She was summoned to the church’s Lagos headquarters where the assault occurred. According to her testimony, Daniels allegedly punished her for missing a meeting by instructing her to his Lekki residence for disciplinary action. Upon her arrival, he purportedly ordered her to undress, claiming he intended to administer physical punishment.
The survivor detailed her harrowing experience, stating, “The following day, we were in the sitting room listening to a pastor’s message when he said I should go naked again. I did, and surprisingly, he also went naked and raped me for about 30 minutes till I started bleeding because of the tears I sustained despite not being a virgin.”
The victim reported the incident to the FCID Alagbon, Lagos, in 2022, leading to the subsequent arrest of Pastor Daniels. During his defense on October 21, 2023, Daniels, while in the witness box, accused three of his victims of conspiracy.
Despite the charges against him, Daniels continued as the pastor of the church, even making significant predictions during the 2023 presidential elections. However, the court’s decisive judgment has now held him accountable for the grave charges of rape and sexual assault, resulting in a life sentence.
Church members have expressed differing views, with some asserting that the popular Lagos pastor was framed, anticipating that the conviction would be overturned. The case has not only brought attention to the heinous act committed by a religious leader but also raised questions about the broader issue of abuse of power and trust within religious institutions.
