Pastor Desmond Eke Sentenced to Eight Years in Prison for Rape in Imo

An Imo State High Court, led by Justice T.N. Nzeukwu, has sentenced Pastor Desmond Eke to eight years in prison for raping the wife of a church member.

EKO HOT BLOG gathered that Pastor Eke, founder of the Deliverance Ministry of the Good Shepherd in Umuihita Avu, Owerri West LGA, was found guilty of exploiting the trust placed in him by the victim, a member of his congregation. He was charged with raping the woman and administering a stupefying substance that left her dizzy and weak.

According to prosecution counsel Chioma Emuka, Pastor Eke took advantage of the woman while she was incapacitated, and when questioned, he claimed that his semen was “holy” and could deliver her from a supposed marine spirit troubling her.

Justice Nzeukwu convicted Pastor Eke on two counts: breach of trust and rape, but acquitted him on a third count related to inflicting physical injuries during the assault. The judge reasoned that since the woman was not fully conscious, there was no resistance or resulting injuries.

Before sentencing, defense counsel Ohaka, representing Nwaneri of Dauda Chambers, argued for leniency, highlighting that Pastor Eke had consistently attended court proceedings and requested probation instead of a full prison term.

This case marks the first prosecution under the Violent Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act in Imo State. The civil society organization Onurube reported and closely followed the case to its conclusion. Marjorie Ezihe, Onurube’s convener, commended the court’s decision, asserting that it would deter others from committing similar crimes.