By Adedayo Gbolahan
A 42-year-old pastor, Samson Ajayi, has been arrested by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force for allegedly defiling and raping his 17-year-old biological daughter over a period of four years at their residence in *Igoba, Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State*.
The suspect, a father of five, was apprehended last week at a prayer mountain in Akure after his wife reportedly caught him in the act and raised the alarm.
According to police sources, the victim’s mother walked in on the father and daughter at their home in Igoba last week. Distressed by what she saw, she immediately reported the matter at the *Igoba Police Station*.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the alleged abuse had been going on for about four years.
Following the report, detectives launched a manhunt for the pastor, who was later tracked to a prayer mountain where he was arrested without resistance.
During interrogation, the suspect allegedly admitted to the crime but blamed his actions on what he described as a “generational curse.”
He told police that his own father had also allegedly committed a similar act against his sister, the suspect’s biological aunt, several years ago. Police said the claim will form part of the investigation and will not excuse the offence.
The Ondo State Police Command confirmed that the suspect is currently in custody and will be charged to court after investigations are concluded.
The incident has sparked outrage in the Igoba community, with residents and community leaders calling for swift justice.
Child rights advocates in the state have also condemned the act and are calling for increased awareness and protection for children within homes and religious institutions.
The Ondo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare said it has been notified and is providing support to the survivor.
A senior officer at the command, who asked not to be named because investigations are ongoing, said:
“_This is a very grievous case. The suspect will be made to face the full weight of the law. We urge parents and guardians to be vigilant and to speak up whenever they suspect abuse._”
The police have urged members of the public with useful information to come forward and also encouraged victims of abuse to report to the nearest police station or to the Ministry of Women Affairs.
The suspect remains in detention pending arraignment.
Post a Comment