Court gavel
Benin High Court has remanded a 38-year-old pastor, Simeon Okehielem, in a correctional facility over allegations of raping a married woman.
Okehielem, founder of Ebube Wonders Synagogue Prayers Ministry, faces a two-count charge of rape and felony intent.
According to the prosecution, the incident occurred in February 2022 in Uholor Community, Benin. The victim allegedly gave birth to an illegitimate child following the incident.
The prosecutor claimed the defendant administered an unknown substance to the victim, rendering her unconscious before committing the crime.
Justice Anthony Erhabor ordered the defendant’s remand pending legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP). The case has been adjourned to July 25 for hearing.
The court has taken cognizance of the seriousness of the allegations and the need for thorough investigation .
