A 42-year-old pastor in Ondo State, Samson Ajayi, has been sent to Olokuta Correctional Centre after being accused of sexually abusing his 17-year-old daughter for more than four years.
Ajayi admitted to the crime but claimed he was influenced by a “generational curse” that he couldn’t explain.
Magistrate Taiwo Lebi presided over the case in Akure and ordered Ajayi to remain in custody while awaiting guidance from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
The alleged abuse took place at Ajayi’s home in the Igoba area of Ondo State.
Ajayi, who has five children, was arrested last week after his wife discovered what had been happening and reported it to the police.
The victim’s mother had no idea about the abuse until one day she came home and found their bed in disarray, which led to her discovering the crime.
After being encouraged, the daughter confessed to her mother, prompting her to report the matter to the authorities. Ajayi was arrested while at a prayer mountain.
He was formally charged in court with two counts related to rape and defilement.
The prosecutor, Supol Martins Olowofeso, told the court that Ajayi committed the acts between March 2021 and August 2025 at his home in Igoba.
According to the charges, Ajayi sexually abused his daughter for over four years.
The official charge sheet states that between July 2021 and August 2025, Ajayi had carnal knowledge of his 17-year-old daughter, violating Ondo State’s Violence Against Persons Prohibition Laws of 2021.
Ajayi did not enter a plea during the hearing.
Given the seriousness of the case, the prosecutor asked the court to keep Ajayi in custody while awaiting advice from the DPP.
The prosecutor submitted an 11-paragraph affidavit showing there was enough reason to detain him.
In court, Ajayi admitted to the crime and claimed a “generational curse” influenced his actions.
He said, “I did it, but I don’t know why. I believe it’s a generational curse because my father also abused my sister. It brought shame on me.”
Ajayi’s lawyer, Kehinde Osadugba, suggested a settlement since the victim’s mother had forgiven him, citing his role as the family’s provider.
The magistrate rejected this, saying that Ajayi’s confession was enough reason to remand him in custody.
The magistrate instructed the prosecutor to send a copy of the case file to the DPP for further action.
The case is now scheduled for review on November 20, 2025.
