CYRIACUS IZUEKWE
The Lagos State Police Command has arraigned a 33-year-old woman, Chidera Omimi, before the Ogba Magistrate Court for allegedly pouring hot water on a 16-year-old girl, Oluchi Ezechukwu. The defendant faces a two-count charge of indecent maltreatment and causing grievous bodily harm under Charge No. 10/13/45/26.
According to the Police charge sheet, the incident occurred on April 22, 2026, at approximately 10:40 PM at No. 11, Bayo Ajayi Close, Meiran. The prosecution alleged that Omimi intentionally poured hot water all over the teenager’s body during a domestic dispute inside the residence.
Neighbours who heard the victim’s screams rushed to the scene to rescue her and immediately notified the authorities. The teenager was subsequently rushed to a nearby hospital, where medical personnel treated her for severe burns across her body.
The case was systematically investigated by operatives attached to the Gender Section of the Lagos State Police Command in Ikeja. The investigation was supervised by Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Oluwatoyin Kazeem, who ensured the compilation of medical evidence.
Following the investigation, the case file was reviewed by the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) at the Lagos State Ministry of Justice. The DPP approved the formal charges, leading to the scheduling of the arraignment at the District Prosecution Office in Ogba.
In Count I, the prosecution stated that the defendant indecently maltreated the 16-year-old victim. The Police noted that this offence violated Section 135 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2015.
Count II focused on the severe physical injuries sustained by the young victim. The charge stated that the act caused grievous harm, making it punishable under Section 245 of the same Criminal Law.
During the presentation, the prosecuting team led by Inspector Eyo Glory submitted the formal charge sheet to the presiding Magistrate. The defence counsel requested a brief delay to review the prosecution’s complete evidence file before entering pleas.
However, the defendant pleaded not guilty.
The prosecutor, SP Philip Ademigbuji, then asked the Court to give a date for hearing since she pleaded not guilty, to enable the Police to prove the allegations.
The Presiding Magistrate, Mrs. O. Kusanu, granted her bail with two sureties, who must show evidence of means of livelihood and tax payment.
The Presiding Magistrate noted the filings from the Gender Section and the Lagos State Ministry of Justice regarding the health status of the minor.
The victim remains under medical supervision and protective care as the legal process moves forward. The Lagos State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to prosecuting all cases of domestic violence and abuse against minors within the state.
Legal experts say the defendant is presumed innocent until the Court finds her guilty.