CYRIACUS IZUEKWE
A 49-year-old female school teacher, Augustina Obi, was arraigned before a Lagos Magistrate Court in the Lagos Magisterial District over an allegation of sexual assault involving a 3-year-old pupil.
The defendant was brought before the court on a one-count charge filed by the Commissioner Of Police, according to court documents.
The prosecution alleged that the incident occurred on the 5th of May, 2026 during school hours at Precious Child Palace Academy located on Mafoluku Road, By Muriaka Bus Stop, Oshodi, Lagos.
According to the charge sheet, the alleged victim is a 3-year-old female pupil of the school.
The prosecution stated in Count I that the defendant allegedly committed an act of sexual assault on the minor, an offence which allegedly caused bodily harm to the child.
The alleged offence is said to be punishable under Section 261 of the Criminal Laws Of Lagos State Of Nigeria, 2015. The section addresses sexual assault and related offences.
The matter was presented in court by Inspector Adunola Omolayo of Ilupeju Police Station, Lagos.
However, the Court did not take her plea after the prosecutor, Inspector Lucky Ihiehie asked the Court to refer the matter to the DPP for legal advice.
The Presiding Magistrate, Mrs. M.O.Tanimola, ordered her remand in custody at the Correctional Center at Kirikiri town, Lagos, pending the outcome of the DPP’s advice and directed the prosecutor to duplicate the file and send it to the DPP for advice.
The matter was adjourned for mention for the report of the DPP’s advice to be ready, which will determine the jurisdiction.
Legal experts note that charges before a magisterial court represent allegations only. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty by the court.
Child rights advocates have called for increased safeguarding measures in schools to protect pupils from all forms of abuse.
Authorities including the Lagos State Domestic And Sexual Violence Agency have urged parents and school management to report any case of abuse immediately to security agencies.
The court is expected to mention the case on a later date for further proceedings. The defendant’s bail status and next steps will be determined by the DPP’s report.