CHUKA UBAH
A 34-year old teacher, Pascal Ofomata, of St. Christopher’s Junior Seminary, 3-3 Onitsha, Anambra State, has been sentenced to 12 years imprisonment without an option of fine for defiling 11-year old JSS 1 male student by penetrating his anus.
P.M.EXPRESS reports that it was the judgment of the Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Court sitting in Awka, Anambra State, presided over by Justice Peace Otti, which found him guilty and sentenced him accordingly.
The convict, Pascal Ofomata, was charged for rape and inflicting physical harm punishable under Section 3(1) and 4(1), respectively, of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law and the offence of Sexual Abuse punishable under Section 35(2) of the Child’s Right Law of Anambra State.
However, he pleaded not guilty to the three-count charge hence the trial.
During the trial, the Court evaluated evidence including testimony from the investigating Police officer and the medical doctor, who examined the victim.
Although he denied penetrating the boy, Ofomata admitted to acts amounting to sexual abuse, according to his statement to the the Police.
Delivering judgment, Justice Otti convicted the defendant and sentenced him to 12 years imprisonment. The court also barred him from working in any institution involving minors, including primary, secondary, and tertiary schools.
Justice Otti commended the lead prosecutor, Chinelo Akorah of the Anambra State Ministry of Justice, for her diligence and professionalism in handling the case.
“The lead Prosecutor’s final address was compelling and comprehensive. It was rare for cases of sexual offences against boys to receive a conclusive end and justice served to offenders,” Otti said.
Reacting to the development, the State Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo, expressed satisfaction, adding, “The Anambra State justice system is one that delivers nothing short of justice. This case is a rare push for justice for the boy-child and awareness that boys too can be victims of sexual violence”.