**Nigerian Pastor Wins Defamation Case in US Court** In a significant development, a US court in Maryland has ordered a Nigerian woman, Olufunke Ashekun, to pay $300,000 in damages for defaming the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM) and its founder, Pastor Daniel Olukoya. The ruling was made by a jury in the Circuit Court of Baltimore County, Maryland, on March 13, 2026. The case against Ashekun was sparked by a series of alleged defamatory statements she made against MFM and Pastor Olukoya. The statements, which were made on social media and in private conversations, were deemed to have damaged the reputation of the church and its founder. The court's decision is a significant victory for Pastor Olukoya and MFM, which has a large following in Nigeria and across the globe. The church, founded by Pastor Olukoya in 1989, is known for its energetic worship sessions and emphasis on spiritual deliverance. For many Nigerians who attend MFM churches, Pastor Olukoya is a respected spiritual leader who has helped countless individuals overcome various challenges through his teachings and prayers. The court's ruling is seen as a validation of Pastor Olukoya's reputation as a man of integrity and a devout servant of God. The case highlights the importance of maintaining a good reputation in the public eye, particularly for public figures and institutions. It also underscores the need for individuals to be mindful of the harm their words can cause to others. Asheku's failure to prove her claims against Pastor Olukoya and MFM has led to a significant financial penalty, which she will have to pay to compensate the church for the damages caused. For Nigerians who may be familiar with Pastor Olukoya's teachings and ministry, this ruling serves as a reminder of the impact of our words and actions on others. It also highlights the importance of respecting the reputations of others, particularly those who have made significant contributions to society.