In a development that has triggered mixed reactions, the Lagos Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court has discharged Pastor Emmanuel Orekoya of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), who was accused of defiling his 17-year-old daughter.
Justice Abiola Soladoye struck out the case on grounds of “want of diligent prosecution”, citing that the Lagos State Government failed to produce a single witness throughout the trial, despite 10 adjournments.
“This case is struck out for want of diligent prosecution,” — Justice Abiola Soladoye
The judge emphasized that since Orekoya’s arraignment on February 26, 2024, no witnesses had appeared in court to testify against him.
“It is right that justice delayed is justice denied. The prosecution is at liberty to re-arrest the defendant and bring him to justice whenever they have assembled their witnesses,” she added.
Orekoya was charged with two counts of defilement and sexual assault by penetration, allegedly committed in 2017 at Jacob Adeleye Street, Odo-Eran, Itire, Surulere, Lagos. The state had accused him of inserting his p*n*s into his daughter’s mouth, a grave charge under Sections 137 and 162 of the Lagos Criminal Law (2015).
The pastor pleaded not guilty, but with no witnesses stepping forward, the court had no option but to dismiss the case.
While the case is now closed, the court granted the state the liberty to re-arrest and prosecute Orekoya if and when they are ready with evidence and witnesses.
