by Adeola Balogun

A man said to be a pastor in Edo has been docked after allegations were made that he participated in homosexual acts.

Philip Ogbebor was arraigned before a Magistrate court in Benin, the state capital, for having sexual intercourse with one Joseph Aigbuzu.

The accused was said to have regularly indulged in illicit homosexual affairs with members of his congregation.

Leadership reports:

The prosecutor, ASP Omosefe Wole-Ehinmowo, said the offence was committed at No 22, Oza Street, off Sakponba Road, Benin City, sometime in November 2012.

According to the prosecutor, the offence is punishable under Section 214 (1) of the criminal code cap 48 vol. II of the defunct Bendel State Laws, 1976, as applicable in Edo state.

The accused who was represented by Mr Victor Ebunka, however pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The accused’s counsel however applied for bail for his client which was granted by the chief magistrate, Peter Asemota in the sum of N200,000 with a surety who must own a house in Benin. The case was adjourned to January 1, 2014.