London Pastor Jailed for 15 Years Over Child Sex Abuse
A trusted London pastor has been locked up for 15 years after being found guilty of sexually abusing a 10-year-old girl. Aniekan Akpan, 47, who led Christ Paradise Church near Old Kent Road, shocked the community with his horrific crimes.
Community Stunned by Shocking Betrayal
Akpan, once a respected figure in Croydon’s St James area, was convicted on 12 offences following a trial at Inner London Crown Court. Despite the verdict, he still denies all charges against him.
The victim, now older, gave a heartbreaking impact statement in court. She revealed, “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 Slams ‘Manipulative Predator’
Judge Ian Darling called Akpan a “manipulative predator” and highlighted the devastating impact on the victim, who was only 10 when the abuse began. The judge said the girl did not report the abuse sooner because she was terrified no one would believe her.
Akpan was sentenced to 15 years in prison, with a minimum of 10 years before parole eligibility. He will also spend an additional 10 years on extended licence and must register as a sex offender for life.
Protecting the Public from a Dangerous Offender
The extended sentence is designed to protect the public—especially vulnerable young girls—from Akpan. The community is left reeling from the betrayal of a man once seen as a pillar of moral authority.
