A cleric, Prophet Godwin Ojerinde, has been dragged before a Magistrate’s Court sitting in Isabo, Abeokuta, on allegations of assaulting one of his female tenants, in Owode Egba, Obafemi-Owode Local Council of Ogun State.
He was also accused of stripping and physically attacking Mrs Motunrayo Saheed, a tenant under his care.
The Guardian learnt that the incident occurred in March, when the landlord confronted Mrs Saheed and resorted to violence, leaving her clothes torn and her dignity hurt.
According to the victim, Ojerinde started the altercation because he disapproved of her apprentices working in the shop he rented out to her.
In her testimony, Mrs Saheed recounted the ordeal, saying: “Just as the landlord left my premises after our discussion, he returned abruptly, barging into my room and subjecting me to physical assault until I was left naked.”
She expressed disappointment that despite reporting the incident at the Owode Egba Police station, no action was taken.
Fearing further harm and seeking justice, Mrs Saheed brought the case before the court.
However, the defendant, represented by J. B. Ogundipe, denied the allegations, stressing that Mrs Saheed demanded N5 million as compensation during the initial police investigation.
The plaintiff denied the claim.
After hearing from the counsel, the Magistrate adjourned proceedings till June 18, 2024.
