A Nigerian pastor, Ernest Ihejiemeounu, has been formally charged with statutory rape and three related offenses and ordered detained at Kakata Central Prison pending trial.
The charges stem from allegations that the pastor sexually abused a 17-year-old girl who is reportedly a member of his church. He was arrested on Monday by the Liberia National Police following a complaint lodged by the victim and her family.
Court records indicate that after his initial appearance before the 13th Judicial Circuit Court, the presiding judge ordered that Ihejiemeounu be remanded while the case proceeds through the judicial process.
According to the victim’s statement, she became pregnant as a result of the alleged abuse. She further alleged that the accused provided her with LD 19,000 to facilitate an abortion, which her parents claim was carried out on February 1, 2026.
Authorities have yet to disclose details of the additional charges accompanying the statutory rape count. The matter remains under active judicial review as the court prepares for trial.
Meanwhile, the Liberia National Police has reiterated its commitment to a thorough and impartial investigation, emphasizing that the case will be handled in accordance with the law as proceedings continue in Kakata.
