By Osagie Otabor, Akure
The embattled founder of Sotitobire Praising Chapel, Akure, Ondo State, Prophet Babatunde Alfa, has opened defence in his ongoing trial over the mysterious disappearance of a one-year-old, Gold Kolawole.
Gold was kept at the children section of his church by his parents last year and was never found again.
Prophet Alfa told an Ondo High Court that he would call 20 witnesses including his wife, Bisola.
Counsel to Prophet Alfa, Olusola Oke told to the court that the 20 witnesses would also testify for six other defendants.
Bisola, who appeared as first defence witness, said her husband showed concern and took appropriate stesp to find the missing boy before he attested by the DSS.
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During cross examination by the lead Prosecutor and Commissioner for justice Adekola Olawoye, Mrs Alfa said her husband never told her he suspected anybody of complicity in the case, but a statement by the controversial clergyman tendered as exhibit said he suspected the 4th defendant, Grace Ogunjobi of a foul play in the incident.
A pastor in the church, Oluwasiji Olaniyi, said they spent all night praying in the church the day the baby got missing.
He informed the court that Prophet Alfa accused Gold’s father of knowing the whereabouts of his son but the boy’s mother threatened to stab him if he doesn’t produce the toddler.
Alfa and his co- defendants are standing trial on a three- count charge to include conspiracy to aid and abet kidnapping, kidnapping and destruction of evidence.
The case was adjourned to Monday for continuation of defence.
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