CYRIACUS IZUEKWE
A Lagos Magistrate Court sitting at Ogba has ordered that four teenage boys be remanded in a juvenile correctional center pending legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, DPP.
The accused, aged between 13 and 17 years, were arraigned on Thursday before Magistrate Mrs. M.O. Tanimola over an alleged case of sexual assault involving a 14-year-old girl.
According to the charge sheet marked RGE NO./2026, the incident was reported to have occurred on June 4, 2026, at about 2:00 PM in the Ikotun area of Lagos. The prosecution alleged that the offence contravened Section 261 of the Lagos State Criminal Law, 2015, which addresses sexual offenses against children.
The case was presented by the prosecutor, ASP Lucky Ihiehie.
Following the arraignment, Magistrate Mrs. M.O. Tanimola did not take the plea of the minors due to their ages and the nature of the offence. The court ordered that they be remanded in a juvenile center while awaiting the DPP’s advice on further prosecution.
An Investigating Police Officer from Ikotun Police Station confirmed that the victim was immediately referred for medical attention and psychosocial support in line with child protection protocols.
The Magistrate adjourned the matter to a later date pending the issuance of legal advice from the DPP, Lagos State Ministry of Justice, Ogba Office.
Following the incident, community stakeholders and child rights advocates in Ikotun have called for increased awareness on child safety and parental supervision.
Officials of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency have also reiterated that survivors of abuse can access free medical, legal, and counseling services through state support channels. Members of the public are urged to report cases of abuse to the nearest Police station or through the DSVA toll-free line: 0800 333 3333.
The court said further proceedings will be conducted in line with juvenile justice procedures, which prioritize confidentiality, rehabilitation, and fair trial for all parties involved.