Lagos court sentences man to life imprisonment for abusing neighbour’s minor daughter

DDM News

A Lagos State court has handed a life sentence to a bricklayer found guilty of abusing his neighbour’s eight-year-old daughter.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that the convict, identified as Azeez Shoderu, also known as “Chisco,” was sentenced by Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Lagos State Special Offences Court in Ikeja.

The court found that the prosecution provided strong and convincing evidence establishing the incident beyond reasonable doubt.

The offence took place on July 27, 2022, at a shared residence in Ajegunle, under the Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area.

The minor had gone to use the bathroom when the convict took advantage of the situation and committed the offence.

According to court testimony, the survivor described the incident in clear terms, while medical reports and police investigation supported her account.

During the trial, Shoderu denied any wrongdoing and entered a not guilty plea when he was arraigned in September 2023.

However, the court concluded that his statements were inconsistent and unconvincing when weighed against the evidence presented.

Justice Oshodi ruled that the law does not recognise the ability of minors to give consent in such cases.

He stated that the psychological harm caused to the child was severe and may take years to heal.

The judge ordered that the convict’s name be added to the Lagos State Sexual Offenders Register as required by law.

The prosecution, led by counsel O.S. Dada, called three witnesses and submitted medical records and investigative findings to strengthen the case.

The defence had appealed for leniency, claiming that the convict was a first-time offender and had no prior criminal record.

However, the prosecution maintained that the convict took advantage of a child in a familiar environment and should be held fully accountable.

Dada also revealed that police reports suggested this might not have been the convict’s first such offence.

Justice Oshodi rejected the plea for leniency and declared the convict guilty, sentencing him to life imprisonment as prescribed by the law.

The judgment has been widely welcomed by child protection advocates and legal observers in Lagos State.

It is seen as a critical step in enforcing Nigeria’s laws on child protection and ensuring justice for vulnerable children.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) notes that the case highlights the urgent need for vigilance and community responsibility in protecting minors.

Authorities continue to encourage the public to report all suspected cases of child abuse for prompt legal action.

The ruling also affirms the state judiciary’s commitment to prioritising the safety and dignity of children across Lagos.

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