The Ekiti State High Court in Ado Ekiti has sentenced 33-year-old Ajewole Olamilekan to life imprisonment after finding him guilty of raping a 10-year-old girl. The second defendant in the case, 25-year-old Omoyajowo Ayo, was discharged and acquitted of all charges.

Both defendants had been arraigned before Justice Adekunle Adeleye on a two-count charge of conspiracy and rape. According to court documents, the offense was committed on June 29, 2024, at Ayetoro Ekiti, violating Section 31(2) of the Child's Rights Law, Cap.C7, Laws of Ekiti State 2012.

To establish the case, prosecutor O.B. Ayeleso presented five witnesses and submitted several pieces of evidence including the defendants' statements, a CD ROM, flash drive, and medical reports documenting the assault.

Defendant's Testimony Exonerates Co-accused

During the trial, Olamilekan, speaking through his legal representative, exonerated Omoyajowo Ayo, stating that she had no involvement in the incident. This testimony appears to have influenced the court's decision to acquit the second defendant.

In his judgment, Justice Adeleye stated, "I find no inferable circumstance linking the 2nd defendant (Omoyajowo Ayo) to commit rape with the 1st defendant; she is hereby acquitted and discharged."

However, regarding Olamilekan, the judge was unequivocal: "On the whole, the prosecution has established the essential ingredients of the offence of rape against the 1st defendant beyond reasonable doubt, he is found guilty as charged."

Maximum Sentence Imposed

Justice Adeleye imposed the maximum penalty available under the law, sentencing Olamilekan to life imprisonment as stipulated by Section 31(2) of the Child's Rights Law of Ekiti State.

This case highlights the judicial system's stance on sexual offenses against minors in Ekiti State, reinforcing the severe consequences for such crimes. Child protection advocates have consistently called for strict enforcement of laws protecting minors from sexual abuse.

The conviction comes amid growing concerns about sexual violence against minors across Nigeria, with various states strengthening legislation and enforcement to combat such crimes.