A 34-year-old pastor, Kelvin Imo, has been ordered to remain in custody at the Makurdi Correctional Centre pending further investigations into a rape allegation brought against him.
The ruling was given by Chief Magistrate Kevin Mbanongun on Wednesday, September 4, 2024. The court, however, did not take the pastor’s plea due to jurisdictional limits and adjourned the matter until October 8 for further mention.
How the Case Started
According to the Prosecutor, Insp. Friday Kanshio, the complaint was first received at the State CID, Makurdi, through a petition filed by the victim.
The victim narrated that on April 22, she visited Living Faith Church, located opposite Coca-Cola Camp, Km 5 Gboko Road, Makurdi, to see the pastor for prayer and counseling.
During the session, she alleged that Pastor Imo prayed for her, wiped her face with a handkerchief, after which she suddenly became weak and lost her strength. The victim claimed that the pastor then overpowered her and forcefully had sexual intercourse with her inside the church.
Police Investigation
Following her petition, police operatives investigated the matter and arrested Pastor Imo. The prosecution further stated that the act violated Section 284 of the Penal Code Laws of Benue, 2004.
What Happens Next?
The accused will remain in custody until his next court appearance in October, while the case continues to gain public attention across Makurdi and beyond.
