72-Year-Old man defiles 10years old girl, gets unexpected punishment
In what could be described as a breakthrough in the fight against sexual violence in the country, a Lagos court has sentenced to life imprisonment a 72 years old man for defiling a minor.
The judgement will serve the needed deterrence in pursuant of girl-child safety in Nigeria.
Minors are prone to sexual violence in Nigeria due to lack of protection and government’s decisive action in dealing with aggressors.
The judgement which was delivered by a high court sitting in Lagos shows the determination of the state to get it rid of incessant and persistent cases of rape and sexual violence against women.
The sentencing is a thing of pride for the institutions and nongovernmental organisations fighting against sexual violence in the country.
The convict’s information was not made public in an effort to protect the victim. The 72 years old was found guilty of defiling the girl-child in a residential axis of the Lagos.
Although the ruling came today, the crime was committed since last year. The criminal was not caught at a spot, but was arrested for prosecution after the minor reported to her parents what happened to her.
Investigation was immediately initiated which led to the arrest of the criminal after medical results pointed to the crime he committed.
The defense counsel could not prove otherwise after the prosecution presented witnesses account. The victim spoke as a witness, with her family members.
The victim went through traumatic experience and suffered emotionally to the point she could not carry on. Overwhelming evidences were presented to the court.
The defense counsel tried to discredit the evidences, as burden of proof was on the prosecution. The defence it mounted couldn’t convince the judge, leading to a ruling that will ensure the 72years spends the rest of his life in jail.
“This court has a duty to protect the most vulnerable members of our society,” the judge stated. “The actions of the defendant are reprehensible, and a strong message must be sent that such crimes will not be tolerated.” The judge read while delivering judgement that struck the aggressor devastatingly.
The ruling is one of the many things expected to protect girl-child in a country that lacks morals and protective institutions for girl-child.
The ruling was praised by groups and experts in Nigeria, especially groups involved in fighting against sexual violence.
“It is crucial that the judiciary imposes stringent penalties for crimes of this nature,” commented a spokesperson for a local child protection NGO. “This verdict not only provides justice for the victim but also serves as a warning to potential offenders about the serious consequences of such actions.”
The case has once more led to discussions about minors in the country, with most people saying girl-child lacks the needed protection from their families.
There is also a discussion about parents leaving children to hawk and not showing sufficient concern in guiding their wards, hence putting them at risk and mercy of sex maniacs and pedophiles.
The government has not released sufficient funds in protection and pursuance of cases involving minors in the country. Sexual violence continues to be prevalent due to inaction.
Police force in the country had pledged to come in for girl-child, but its role has come into question, with some accusing them of protecting the wealthy criminals.
“This case is a reminder of the importance of robust legal frameworks and the need for society to take a stand against all forms of sexual abuse,” said a representative from a national child advocacy organization.
“We must ensure that every child can live free from the fear of abuse and that justice is served for those who have suffered.”
