From Bose Olatunji, Ilorin 

The Kwara State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has recorded a major milestone in its sustained fight against sexual and gender-based violence, following the conviction and sentencing of the General Overseer of Mission House of Divine Land of Joy and Prayer Ministry, Prophet Ajiboye Abayomi Olayinka, for rape and related offences involving minors.

Delivering judgment on Wednesday, at the Kwara State High Court sitting in Ilorin, Justice Hammed Aliyu Gegele sentenced the defendant to life imprisonment on multiple counts bordering on rape and unlawful sexual intercourse with minors, in addition to a 14-year prison term for illegal abortion.

The conviction followed painstaking investigations initiated by the NSCDC Kwara State Command through its Gender Unit after the arrest of the suspect in May 2024 over allegations of sexual abuse and exploitation of underage victims in Agah Village, Ilorin South Local Government Area of Kwara State.

Upon conclusion of investigations by the Command, the matter was subsequently transferred to the Kwara State Ministry of Justice for diligent prosecution, culminating in the successful conviction secured before the court.

The NSCDC State Commandant, Abbas Nda Mohammed, commended the courage displayed by the victims who came forward despite threats, intimidation, and emotional trauma.

He also applauded the professionalism, diligence, and resilience of officers of the Gender Unit whose investigative efforts laid the groundwork for the successful prosecution of the case.

The Command equally appreciated the Kwara State Ministry of Justice for its unwavering commitment to justice and collaboration throughout the prosecution process.

Abbas further asserted that the Command remains resolute in its commitment to safeguarding children, protecting the vulnerable persons, and ensuring that perpetrators of sexual and gender-based violence are brought to justice irrespective of their social, religious, or professional status.