Pastor-Lawyer Back in Court Over Alleged Indecent Assault of Minor
A Lagos pastor and lawyer, Aka-Bashorun Olawale Akanni, is once again facing the court over allegations of indecent treatment of a 14-year-old girl, in a case that has reignited public conversation about accountability among religious leaders.
The Case at a Glance
Akanni, who also serves as a pastor with the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), was re-arraigned before Justice Hakeem Oshodi of the Lagos State High Court, Ikeja, on Wednesday.
The Lagos State Government filed a one-count charge against him, accusing the cleric of indecently assaulting a minor by allegedly fondling her breasts — an offence said to contravene Section 135 of the Lagos State Criminal Law, 2015.
The Courtroom Drama
Represented by his counsel, Morenikeji Oyekunle, the defendant pleaded not guilty and asked to remain on the bail previously granted by a Magistrate’s Court. Oyekunle argued that Akanni, being both a clergyman and a legal practitioner, posed no flight risk and had complied with all bail conditions.
However, state prosecutor Funmilola Aluko urged the court to review those bail terms, citing the seriousness of the allegations.
Justice Oshodi, in his ruling, maintained the existing bail conditions and ordered the defence to ensure the defendant’s attendance at all future hearings.
Complainant’s Testimony
The courtroom grew tense as the alleged victim — now 27 years old — took the stand to testify. She told the court that she met Akanni through her father, a member of the RCCG parish on Lagos Island, and that she moved in with the pastor’s family around 2010, when she was about eight years old.
According to her, what began as an arrangement to help her improve academically and join the church choir turned into a period of repeated abuse. She alleged that Akanni would molest her sexually and punish her harshly whenever she performed poorly in school.
Eventually, she said, she ran away from his house and informed her parents. But it wasn’t until 2023 — after she heard of a similar allegation involving another minor — that she decided to officially report the matter to authorities.
Under cross-examination, the witness added that she had confided in her class teacher, Mrs. Akingbeoyewa, about the abuse while still living with the defendant.
Adjournment and Court Order
At the close of her testimony, the defence requested time to obtain the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the witness’s evidence. The prosecution opposed the delay, warning that it could cause further emotional strain on the witness.
Justice Oshodi eventually granted the adjournment but invoked Section 193 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law, ordering the defence to pay ₦50,000 to the witness before the next court date as compensation for the delay.
The case has been adjourned to December 9, 2025, for the continuation of trial.
Broader Implications
This case underscores a persistent issue in Nigeria’s justice system — the delicate intersection of religion, power, and accountability. With more survivors finding the courage to speak out years after alleged abuses, questions continue to surface about how institutions handle such claims, particularly when the accused hold positions of trust.
As the trial resumes in December, all eyes will be on the outcome — and on what it could mean for justice, faith, and institutional responsibility in Nigeria.