Calgary Court Convicts Nigerian Lawyer Charles Ikenwe of Sexual Assault

An aspiring Nigerian lawyer in Calgary, Charles Ikenwe, has been convicted of sexual assault against a woman who works within the justice system. The incident took place in Ikenwe’s home two years ago while he was completing his articling requirements in Canada after emigrating from Nigeria with his wife, who sponsored his immigration and supported him financially and emotionally.

Justice Marilyn Slawinsky presided over the case and dismissed Ikenwe’s claim that the sexual encounter was consensual. The complainant testified she had gone to Ikenwe’s home for a purpose other than engaging in a sexual encounter and was forced to wait until another occupant of the residence left. This individual was believed by the complainant to be the husband of the couple living there but was later revealed to be Ikenwe’s wife.

The defense argued that the complainant fabricated the allegation after learning of Ikenwe’s marital status. However, the judge noted that the complainant did not even know Ikenwe’s last name or marital status at the time she reported the assault shortly after the incident on October 25, 2023. Justice Slawinsky found the complainant’s version credible and rejected Ikenwe’s claim of consent, stating, “She did not consent to the sexual activity.”

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The conviction has deeply distressed Ikenwe’s wife, who had stood by him for years despite warnings from family and their Redeemed Christian Church pastor regarding his abusive behavior. The court ordered a presentence report at the defense counsel’s request, and Ikenwe remains free pending sentencing, which is scheduled for December 5, 2025.

This case highlights issues surrounding consent and credibility in sexual assault trials, with the judge emphasizing the complainant’s awareness of the difficulties involved in proving such cases in court. The court’s findings send a strong message about the serious consequences of sexual misconduct, regardless of the perpetrator’s professional or immigrant status ​.