MICHAEL AKINOLA
A 13-year-old boy has been arraigned before a Magistrate Court in sitting in Ogba Lagos over allegations of sexual harassment of an 8-year old girl.
According to the charge sheet, the alleged incident was said to have occurred sometime in April 2026. The location was given as No. 1, Ayonuga Street, Fadeyi Bus Stop, Mushin, within the Lagos Magisterial District.
The case was filed before the court by the Lagos State Police Command. Police officers from the Gender Section of the Command handled the matter.
In the charge, the prosecution alleged that the defendant used his hand to slap the bottom of a minor. The alleged act was said to have been committed at the address stated in the charge.
The offence was said to be contrary to and punishable under Section 264 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2015. The section deals with sexual harassment and related acts.
During arraignment, the particulars of the offense were read to the defendant in open court. The court noted the age of the defendant in the record.
The prosecutor listed on the charge sheet is Inspr. Osungwu Maria of the Gender Section, Lagos State Police Command, Ikeja. The IPO for the case was also indicated on the document.
CSP Omolola Odutola was named as the Police officer in charge of the case file.
Child justice procedures in Lagos State require that cases involving minors be handled with due regard to welfare and legal protections. The court is expected to ensure that proceedings follow the provisions of the law.
Legal observers note that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court. The matter will proceed with hearing and presentation of evidence.
The Court adjourned the matter to a later date to enable further proceedings. The presiding Magistrate, Mrs. O. Kusanu,
will determine the next steps in accordance with Lagos State law and child justice guidelines.
The names of the defendant and victim were withheld because they are still minors.