CYRIACUS IZUEKWE
A 46-year-old man, Sylvester Akamezie, was arraigned before Mrs. M.O. Tanimola of a Lagos Magistrate Court sitting in Ogba on Wednesday over allegations of defilement involving a 7-year-old minor.
The charge, marked Charge No. 12026 and filed by the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, was prosecuted by ASP Lucky Ihehie. The defendant was accused of committing an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 137 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2015.
According to court documents, the incident was alleged to have occurred on May 30, 2026 at about 8:00pm at a residence on Animashaun Street, Ijeshatedo area of Lagos.
The matter was reported to the Ijeshatedo Police Division on June 29, 2026 by the minor’s mother, who is 39 years old and a resident of the same address. The case was subsequently transferred to the Gender Section of the Lagos State Police Command, Ikeja for further investigation.
In a sworn affidavit in support of a remand application deposed to by the Investigating Police Officer, Inspector Eyo Glory of the Gender Section, the Police stated that they are conversant with the facts of the case and have the authority of the Commissioner of Police to proceed.
The IPO told the court that the suspect was arrested and made a statement to the Police during investigation. She added that based on findings so far, the Police were of the opinion that the suspect should be remanded pending legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, DPP.
Section 137 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015 provides for stiff penalties for defilement of a child under the age of 18. Child rights advocates in Lagos have consistently called for speedy prosecution of such cases to serve as a deterrent and to ensure justice for survivors.
At the court session before Magistrate Mrs. M.O. Tanimola, the defendant’s plea was not taken after the prosecutor asked the Court to refer the matter to the DPP for legal advice.
The Court ordered the remand of the defendant at the Correctional Centre in Kirikiri town pending the outcome of DPP’s advice, which will determine jurisdiction.
Human rights groups and gender-based violence advocates have praised the Lagos State Police Command, particularly the Gender Section, for its prompt response and for handling the matter with professionalism. They noted that the establishment of dedicated gender desks across police formations has helped in ensuring that cases involving women and children are treated with the sensitivity and urgency they require.
Legal observers say the decision to seek remand while awaiting DPP’s advice is standard procedure in serious criminal matters in Lagos State. This allows investigators to complete all processes while ensuring the accused remains in lawful custody.
The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Justice and the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, DSVA, has continued to emphasize a zero-tolerance policy on sexual and gender-based violence. Officials have urged members of the public to report any form of abuse and assured that survivors will receive medical, legal and psychosocial support through state-run channels.
Community leaders in Ijeshatedo have also called for increased awareness and vigilance to protect children. They stressed the importance of parents, guardians, and neighbours speaking up when they suspect abuse, and of working closely with law enforcement to ensure safe environments for minors.
The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.