Christian Association of Nigeria launches internal investigation into rape allegations against Pastor Fatoyinbo

FAITH umbrella group the Christian Association of Nigeria (Can) has opened an in-house investigation into the rape allegations made by the wife of musician Timi Dakolo Busola against Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo of the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (Coza).

Earlier this week, Busola alleged that the Coza founder forcefully raped her when she was young and the allegation has generated a lot of discourse across Nigeria. Pastor Fatoyinbo has denied the allegation, although he admitted that Busola once attended the same church with his family.

Since the allegations were made, Pastor Fatoyinbo said he has instructed his lawyers to institute both criminal and civil case against Busola. In its official position on the matter, Can said it condemned any case of rape in strong terms and added that it will investigate the claims to see if they are true.

Can President Reverend Samson Ayokunle, said: “It doesn’t matter who is involved, it is ungodly, wicked and reprehensible. On the allegations against Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo, we have no details about the matter other than what we are reading and hearing from the social media.

“This is not reliable and credible evidence enough to jump into a conclusion, so the Can leadership, therefore, has reached out to the leadership of the block which the pastor in question belongs, with a view to getting to the root of the matter. This will help us to make the right decision on the issue.”

Yesterday, the Federal Capital Territory Police commissioner Bala Ciroma, said that the police usually require complaints from victims or witnesses to proceed with criminal action or rape charges against an alleged rapist. He called on Busola to file a formal complaint and then the police will proceed from there.