The Ondo State Police Command today said it had arrested a man Chief Adeniyi Ifedayo, for allegedly raping a 12-year-old girl in Laaagba community in Ondo East Local Government Area of the state.
Ifedayo, who was the traditional ruler of the community, was said to have lured the girl into his house in the community and harboured her in the house for two weeks, where he allegedly assaulted her sexually, reports The PUNCH.
A source stated that the victim was allegedly lured to the house of the traditional ruler by a yet to be identified commercial motorcycle rider in the community, adding that the suspect allegedly kept her in his house for two weeks and fed her with pap, while he assaulted her sexually on a daily basis.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Mr Olayinka Ayanlade, who confirmed the arrest of the suspect, said the matter had been transferred to the state headquarters of the command.
He simply stated, “The case has been transferred to the headquarters, and a thorough investigation is ongoing.”
Meanwhile state chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists in a statement, has condemned the alleged sexual abuse of a 12-year-old girl by the suspect.
In the statement issued by the Chairperson and the Secretary of the group, Mrs Tola Gbadamosi and Tosin Ighoteguono respectively, the association urged the state government and security agencies to ensure the suspect faces the full weight of the law.
The statement read, “The association demands transparency and accountability in the investigation and prosecution of the case, and stands with the victim and her family, urging them to cooperate fully with the authorities. NAWOJ has also called on parents, guardians, and communities to be vigilant in protecting children from abuse and exploitation.”
The association, emphasises the need for the government to strengthen laws and policies that safeguard children’s rights and hold perpetrators accountable.
“The association demands justice and accountability in this case highlight the need for a swift and decisive response to protect the rights and dignity of the child.”
