Pastor arraigned for calling gospel artiste prostitute
A clergyman, Apostle Niyi Peter, from Osun State, was arraigned before the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Osogbo on Thursday for allegedly defaming a renowned gospel artiste, Bunmi Akinnaanu, popularly known as Omije Ojumi.
The defamation incident reportedly occurred on social media, where the pastor labeled one of her songs as a “prostitute song.”
Peter is facing a three-count charge, with the prosecution revealing that in April 2024, the accused posted a picture of the artiste alongside the defamatory tag on WhatsApp, sparking widespread outrage among her fans and the gospel community.
Further allegations include sending a threatening voice note to the singer, claiming that she “will perish and never rise again.” These actions were deemed by the authorities to be capable of breaching public peace and defaming Akinnaanu’s character.
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Peter pleaded not guilty to the charges. His legal counsel, Mr. Okobe Najite, requested bail on his behalf. Magistrate Dr. Olusegun Ayilara granted bail, setting the sum at N1 million with two sureties who must be civil servants.
The court has adjourned the case to October 22, 2024, for further proceedings.
