Justice T. N. Nzeukwu of the Imo State High Court has sentenced pastor Desmond Eke to eight years in prison for raping a congregant’s wife. Eke, the founder of the Deliverance Ministry of the Good Shepherd in Umuehieta Avu, Owerri West, was convicted for exploiting the trust placed in him by his victim.
Eke faced charges on three counts, including raping the victim and administering drugs that rendered her incapacitated. The prosecution revealed that while in this vulnerable state, the victim was assaulted, regaining consciousness to find Eke still with her.
During the trial, Eke attempted to justify his actions by claiming that his semen was “holy enough” to exorcise a marine spirit troubling the victim.
Justice Nzeukwu confirmed Eke’s guilt on the charge of breaching trust and raping the woman but dismissed a third count related to inflicting injuries, stating that the lack of consciousness on the victim’s part precluded any resistance or injury.
Before sentencing, Eke’s defense attorney requested leniency, citing the pastor’s good behavior and consistent courtroom attendance throughout the trial and advocating for probation instead of a prison sentence.
This case marks a significant milestone as the first prosecution under the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act in Imo State. A local civil society organization reported the incident and ensured its legal follow-up. Advocates believe that this conviction sends a strong message, potentially deterring future acts of violence against women.
