Justice J.A. Aina of the FCT High Court in Gwagwalada has acquitted Rev. Israel Akanji, former Resident Pastor of First Baptist Church, Garki, Abuja, and five others over alleged misappropriation of N620 million.
In his judgement, Justice Aina advised the church members to settle their internal disputes amicably and encouraged reconciliation.
He described the case as a family matter that should not have been taken to court.
The ruling came after Defence Counsel Adeniyi Akintola (SAN) argued that the court lacked jurisdiction and that the prosecution’s failure to file a counter-affidavit meant the defence’s claims were not challenged and, therefore, not legally admissible.
Justice Aina ruled that the police had not established a prima facie case against the defendants. He stated that having reviewed the affidavits and exhibits filed by the Nigeria Police Force, they did not support the continuation of the case. Justice Aina further noted that the issue of jurisdiction must be settled first, as, without it, no other issues can be considered. By failing to respond to the application, the police effectively conceded to the defence’s claims. As a result, he found merit in the application and struck out the charges without awarding costs to either party. In a moral tone after delivering his ruling, Justice Aina urged church members to seek a peaceful resolution within their community. He stated that this was a family matter that should be resolved internally and that, as Christians, they must show the light that Christ has shown them. It was not right, he said, that such matters should be brought before the courts. The defendants – Reverend Akanji, Reverend Thomas Ekugbene Takpatore, Mr Babatunde Adebayo, Mrs Adenike Adebayo, Mr Oladele Afolabi, and Mrs Gloria Olotu – were standing trial for alleged conspiracy, forgery, and misappropriation of church funds. The defendants were accused of conspiring in 2021 to commit a felony, thereby violating Section 97 of the Penal Code.
