A popular broadcaster and pastor of Celestial Church of Christ (CCC), Gbenga Filani was on Tuesday arraigned before a magistrate court for alleged rape of a pregnant teenager.
The Police had arrested the popular broadcaster for the alleged offence of raping of a 19-year old pregnant lady who had gone to his church for deliverance.
The Police brought the suspect to court for unlawful rape of the teenager.
The charge preferred against the pastor by the Police Prosecutor, Mr Nelson Akintimehin, accused the broadcaster of two count charge bordering on rape and assault.
Filani was said to have committed the offence on December 8, 2021 at about 3:43pm at Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) Deliverance Parish, No 1, Owuye Close, Fabunmi Avenue, Oda Road Akure.
The police prosecutor said the offences were punishable under sections 358 and 360 of the criminal code cap 37, vol 1 laws of Ondo state of Nigeria 2006.
Mr. Akintimehin, however, urged the court to remand the accused person pending legal advice of the Department of Public Prosecution. But the lawyer to the accused, Adelanke Akinrata asked the court to grant bail pending the legal advice from the Department of Public Prosecution (DPP).
Akinrata argued that there was not evidence before the court to link the accused with the alleged offence committed.
The Presiding Magistrate, Damilola Sekoni however granted bail in the sum of N500, 000 and two sureties in the like sum. He said the sureties must deposed to affidavit of means.
Magistrate Sekoni added that the sureties must have landed properties in the jurisdiction of the court. He adjourned to January 14 for hearing of the case.
