Court Sentences Two Men To 10 years Imprisonment For S3xual Assault Of 16-year-old Boy In Lagos

 

A Lagos Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court has delivered a resolute verdict, sentencing Chukwuka Odinaka and Ikechukwu Eze to a combined 20 years behind bars for the horrific sexual assault of a 16-year-old boy. The ruling, handed down by Justice Rahman Oshodi, underscores the judiciary’s unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and punishing perpetrators of heinous crimes. Both men, convicted on charges of indecent treatment of a child and sexual assault, will serve 10 years each, with their sentences structured to run consecutively, ensuring a robust deterrent against such atrocities.

The case, which has gripped the attention of Lagos residents, stems from events alleged to have occurred in 2020. The Lagos State government, acting as the prosecuting authority, charged Odinaka and Eze with sexually assaulting the minor through forcible anal penetration. The gravity of the accusations set the stage for a trial that would expose the traumatic ordeal endured by the young victim and highlight the state’s resolve to seek justice.

The legal proceedings began on November 23, 2022, when the defendants faced an initial charge of sexual assault by penetration. At the arraignment, both Odinaka and Eze entered not guilty pleas, setting the course for a trial that would unravel the disturbing details of the case. The prosecution, determined to secure justice, presented compelling evidence through key witnesses whose testimonies painted a vivid picture of the crime’s impact.

Jonathan Inalegwu Ounche, the victim’s brother and guardian, emerged as a pivotal figure in the trial. Testifying as the first prosecution witness (PW1), Ounche recounted his role in identifying and facilitating the arrest of the two men. His testimony provided a harrowing account of the events leading to the discovery of the assault, emphasizing the emotional toll on the victim and his family. Ounche’s resolve to seek justice was further evidenced by his decision to refer the victim to the Women at Risk International Foundation (WARIF) for a comprehensive medical examination, a step that would prove critical in corroborating the allegations.

Okoi Oluchi, a nurse at WARIF and the second prosecution witness (PW2), delivered testimony that bolstered the case. Oluchi presented a medical report, admitted as exhibits A to A7, prepared by Dr. Makanjuola. The report detailed extensive physical evidence consistent with forcible anal penetration, including severe abrasions and bruises on the victim’s anus. This medical documentation served as a cornerstone of the prosecution’s case, offering undeniable proof of the trauma inflicted on the minor.

Faced with overwhelming evidence, Odinaka and Eze opted not to contest the allegations. Through their counsel, Tolulope Banjo, the defendants initiated plea bargain discussions with the prosecution. This strategic move led to an amended charge, which included counts of indecent treatment of a child and sexual assault. When the revised charges were read in court, both men pleaded guilty, a decision that paved the way for Justice Oshodi’s final ruling.

The courtroom atmosphere was somber as Justice Oshodi pronounced the verdict. Satisfied that the guilty pleas were voluntary, informed, and unequivocal, the judge convicted Odinaka and Eze on both counts. For the charge of indecent treatment of a child, under section 135 of the Criminal Law, each defendant received a seven-year sentence. An additional three years was imposed for sexual assault, as defined under section 263 of the Criminal Law. The court’s decision to have the sentences run consecutively ensures that each man will serve the full 10 years, a measure intended to reflect the severity of their actions.

Beyond the imprisonment, Justice Oshodi issued a directive that the names of Odinaka and Eze be entered into the register of sex offenders. This step reinforces the state’s commitment to monitoring individuals convicted of sexual crimes, safeguarding communities from potential repeat offenders. The ruling sends a clear message: acts of sexual violence, particularly against minors, will be met with stringent consequences.

The case has sparked broader conversations about the protection of minors and the role of institutions like WARIF in supporting survivors of sexual violence. Advocates have praised the Lagos State government for its proactive stance in prosecuting such cases, highlighting the importance of swift and thorough investigations. The medical evidence provided by WARIF, coupled with the testimony of dedicated witnesses, proved instrumental in securing the convictions.

As the sentences take effect, the victim and his family face the long road to healing. The trauma of the assault, compounded by the public nature of the trial, underscores the need for continued support services for survivors. Community leaders and organizations have called for increased awareness and education to prevent similar incidents, emphasizing the collective responsibility to protect the most vulnerable.

The conviction of Chukwuka Odinaka and Ikechukwu Eze marks a significant moment in Lagos’ ongoing fight against sexual violence. Justice Oshodi’s ruling not only holds the perpetrators accountable but also reaffirms the judiciary’s role as a pillar of justice. For the 16-year-old boy at the heart of this case, the verdict offers a measure of closure, while for society, it stands as a beacon of hope that such crimes will not go unpunished.