The Ikeja High Court on Friday denied bail to a cleric, Elijah Emenandy, charged with sexual assault of his church member.

Mr Emenandy had applied for bail, citing health challenges.

According to his counsel, C. E. Ezemba, Mr Emenandy is suffering from high blood pressure, which requires medical attention.

However, Lagos State counsel Ola Azeez, in a 14-paragraph counter-affidavit dated December 13, 2023, argued that the charges against the defendant were grievous, urging that he should not be granted bail.

He said that Mr Emenandy’s health challenge would not be a threat to other inmates since it was not contagious, adding that the defendant could jump bail.

Justice Oyindamola Ogala dismissed the bail application, upholding the prosecution’s submission that the charges against the cleric were grievous.

“The bail application is refused, and accelerated hearing is hereby ordered,” the judge held.

Ms Ogala adjourned the case until February 23 for trial.

The defendant is standing trial on a three-count charge bordering on sexual assault by penetration and sexual assault.

The offences contravene section 261 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

Mr Emenandy had pleaded not guilty on arraignment.

The alleged victim had, on October 30, 2023, testified against the defendant, narrating before the court how Mr Emenandy allegedly taught him how to masturbate, watch pornographic content and practice anal sex.

The witness also testified that the defendant physically tortured him while he lived in his house. 

(NAN)