A Lagos State High Court in Ikeja has sentenced a couple, Harry Uyanwanne and Oluwakemi Odemuyiwa, alongside Temple International Church, to a combined 16 years imprisonment for fraud involving N52 million.
Justice Mojisola Dada convicted the duo and ordered the church’s deregistration, citing its misuse of religious platforms to defraud individuals.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) charged the couple with seven counts, including stealing, dishonest conversion, and false representation.
Uyanwanne received a 10-year sentence, while Odemuyiwa was sentenced to six years. The sentences will run concurrently. Additionally, the court mandated the convicts to restitute N31 million to the complainant within 60 days.
The EFCC revealed that the couple fraudulently sold a property in Magodo, Lagos, claiming authority from the deceased owner, Mrs. Janet Adeola Odemuyiwa, and converted N10 million for personal use.
Justice Dada emphasized the gravity of exploiting religious institutions for fraudulent activities, stating, “Using the name of God and the church to defraud people is unacceptable.”
The court’s ruling underscores the judiciary’s stance against abuse of trust and fraudulent practices.
