In a landmark ruling, Michael Oluronbi, a 60-year-old Nigerian pastor based in the UK, has been sentenced to 34 years in prison for multiple counts of segxwal offences against members of his congregation.
The verdict, delivered after a lengthy trial at Birmingham Crown Court, saw Oluronbi convicted of 15 counts of rape, seven counts of indecent assault, and two counts of segxwal assault. His crimes, spanning over two decades, involved the abuse of six women and one man, including children.
Describing the case as one of the worst instances of segxwal abuse before the courts, the judge highlighted Oluronbi's egregious actions, which included using his position of authority to prey on vulnerable individuals within his church community.
Oluronbi's modus operandi involved convincing victims to participate in so-called "spiritual bathing" rituals, promising to cleanse them of evil spirits. This manipulation led to numerous instances of rape and indecent assault, with some victims subjected to multiple pregnancies as a result.
During the trial, evidence revealed that Oluronbi's wife, Juliana, was complicit in his crimes, aiding and abetting in some of the offences. Consequently, she was sentenced to 11 years in prison for her role in facilitating her husband's abuse.
In a chilling confession captured on video by a victim's family member, Oluronbi expressed remorse for his actions, acknowledging his culpability and referring to himself as an "animal." The footage, released by West Midlands Police, provided a harrowing insight into the pastor's mindset and the devastation caused by his crimes.
The case has sparked widespread outrage and calls for greater accountability within religious institutions, underscoring the importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals from exploitation and abuse.
As the survivors of Oluronbi's crimes continue to grapple with the trauma inflicted upon them, the verdict serves as a significant milestone in their quest for justice and closure.
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