Former Catholic priest Stephen Nwaigwe finds himself behind bars after an Awka Chief Magistrates’ Court in Anambra State ordered his remand for allegedly raping and impregnating a teenager.
The court, known as the Children, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Court, made the decision as the disturbing details of the case unfolded.
Nwaigwe, previously expelled from the “Two Hearts of Love Congregation” in Orlu, Imo State, in 2018, faced accusations of sexual misconduct detrimental to the church’s reputation.
Despite his dismissal, he continued performing religious activities, raising concerns about his influence.
The alleged victim revealed that she met Nwaigwe during a church program at St. Albert The Great Catholic Church Parish, Obosi, Anambra State.
At the tender age of 14, she was taken from her parents with promises of educational sponsorship, serving as Nwaigwe’s cook. The victim claimed that the former priest sexually molested her until she became pregnant at 17.
In a disturbing twist, Nwaigwe transported the minor to Benin City, Edo State, where she gave birth under questionable circumstances. The whereabouts of the child remain unknown, adding another layer of mystery to the case.
During the court proceedings, the police prosecutor argued for Nwaigwe’s remand, emphasizing the gravity of the offence against a minor under the defendant’s spiritual guardianship.
The defence, however, sought bail, citing legal provisions and assuring the court that Nwaigwe would not evade justice.
The presiding Chief Magistrate, Genevieve Osakwe, denied bail, considering the severity of the offence punishable with life imprisonment.
She urged Nwaigwe to seek bail at the High Court and ordered the case file be transmitted to the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice of Anambra State. The case is adjourned to December 6, 2023, awaiting further developments.
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