A Chief Magistrate Court in Ado-Ekiti has ordered the remand of 24-year-old Elijah Innocent in correctional custody for allegedly raping a 19-year-old girl.
During the court proceedings, Inspector Akinwale Oriyomi, the prosecuting officer, informed the court that the alleged offense contravenes Section 265(1) of the Ekiti State Criminal Law, 2021.
Inspector Oriyomi also noted that the case file has been forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) for legal review and further directives on how to proceed with the case.
Chief Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun, who presided over the matter, directed that the defendant be remanded in custody pending further developments. The case has been adjourned to July 8 for further mention.
This case adds to the growing concern about sexual violence in Nigeria, where advocates continue to push for stricter enforcement of laws protecting vulnerable individuals, particularly young women and girls.
The Ekiti State government has previously expressed commitment to addressing gender-based violence through various initiatives, including the establishment of specialized courts to handle such cases.
Legal Implications of Sexual Assault Cases in Nigeria
Sexual assault cases in Nigeria carry severe penalties under both state and federal laws. The Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act, which has been domesticated in many states including Ekiti, provides comprehensive protection against various forms of violence, including sexual assault.
Convicted offenders can face imprisonment terms ranging from 14 years to life, depending on the severity of the offense and the jurisdiction where the crime was committed.
Legal experts continue to advocate for swift justice in such cases to serve as a deterrent to potential offenders while providing closure for survivors.
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