A London pastor has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for the sexual abuse of a 10-year-old girl, a case that has shocked the local community. Aniekan Akpan, 47, who served as a pastor at Christ Paradise Church near Old Kent Road, was found guilty of 12 offences related to the abuse, which began when the victim was just 10 years old.
Akpan, a well-respected figure in the community, was convicted following a trial at Inner London Crown Court. Despite the guilty verdict, Akpan, of St James in Croydon, continues to deny all charges against him.
During the sentencing on Monday, September 9, an emotional impact statement from the victim was read aloud in court. Reflecting on the abuse, the now-older victim said, “It really messed me up. It has affected the way I see older men and I feel uncomfortable around men now. I don’t think I’ll be able to fix that part of my life.” She added, “I never want to see him out on the street ever again.”
Judge Ian Darling, who sentenced Akpan, described the pastor as a “manipulative predator” and emphasized the profound impact the abuse had on the young victim. “Tragically, she describes in her evidence that she got so used to it going on that she didn’t tell anyone. One of the reasons she said she didn’t tell anyone was that she didn’t think they would believe her,” Judge Darling said. She was only 10 years old and could not have begun to understand what was going on.
Akpan was sentenced to 15 years in prison, with an extended licence period, meaning he will serve at least 10 years before being eligible for parole. Even if released, he will remain on licence for a total of 20 years. Judge Darling explained that the extended sentence was essential to protect the public, especially young girls who might come into contact with Akpan in the future. Additionally, Akpan must sign the sex offenders’ register for life.
The case has left the community grappling with the shocking betrayal by a figure of trust, as Akpan was once seen as a pillar of moral authority and guidance
