Ekiti State Chief Magistrate Court in Ado Ekiti has granted bail to the Pastor who demanded that his Church Members pay N310000 for flight tickets to heaven.
Pastor Noah Abraham Adelegan of Christ High Commission Ministry, Omuo Oke Ekiti was arraigned on a one count charge of false pretense and intent to defraud.
The cleric had gone viral after he allegedly asked each of his members to pay the stated sum for a flight that would take them to heaven.
The charge reads, “That you Pastor Noah Abraham Adelegan on 27th April, 2022 at Omuo Oke Ekiti in Omuo Magisterial District, did by false pretense and intent to defraud, presented yourself to your congregation at Christ High Commission Ministry, Omuo Oke Ekiti as capable of taking them to heaven before rapture, upon payment of money ranging from N300,000 – N310,000.”
The Police added that the offence contravenes Section 416 of the Criminal law of Ekiti State, 2012.
The pastor pleaded not guilty to the charge.
However, Counsel to the defendant, Adunni Olanipekun requested that the court grant them bail adding that he is ready to provide a reliable surety (ies) and ensure his availability in court until its determination.
The Police prosecutor, Inspector Johnson Okunade did not oppose the application but asked the court to exercise its discretion in granting or refusing the bail.
In his ruling, Magistrate Titilola Olaolorun granted bail to the defendant in the sum of N100,000 with two sureties in like sum. “The sureties must possess Nigerian National Identity Card,” he concluded.
The matter has been adjourned till 24th May, 2022 for mention.