Justice Served as A Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Court in Anambra Jails Teacher 12-Year Term for Child Sexual Abuse

 

A Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Court in Awka, Anambra State, delivered a landmark ruling on Wednesday, sentencing 34-year-old schoolteacher Pascal Ofomata to 12 years in prison for sexually assaulting an 11-year-old male JSS 1 student. Presided over by Justice Peace Otti, the court found Ofomata, a teacher at St. Christopher’s Junior Seminary in Onitsha, guilty of heinous acts that violated the trust placed in him as an educator. The case, which has sparked widespread discussions on protecting vulnerable children, particularly boys, marks a significant step in Anambra’s fight against sexual violence.

Ofomata faced a three-count charge, including rape and inflicting physical harm under Sections 3(1) and 4(1) of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law, as well as sexual abuse under Section 35(2) of the Child’s Right Law of Anambra State. Despite pleading not guilty, the evidence presented during the trial painted a grim picture of his actions. Court documents revealed that while Ofomata denied penetrating the victim’s anus in his extrajudicial statement to the police, he admitted to engaging in other forms of sexual misconduct, including sucking the victim’s penis and coercing the boy into kissing him. These admissions, coupled with the testimony of the investigating police officer and medical evidence from the doctor who examined the victim, formed the backbone of the prosecution’s case.

Justice Otti’s courtroom buzzed with anticipation as the trial unfolded, with the prosecution, led by Chinelo Akorah of the Anambra State Ministry of Justice, presenting a compelling case. Akorah’s final address was described by the judge as “comprehensive and brilliant,” weaving together witness testimonies, medical findings, and legal arguments to secure a conviction. The court not only sentenced Ofomata to 12 years behind bars but also imposed a lifelong ban on his employment in any institution serving individuals under 18, including primary, secondary, and tertiary schools. This additional measure underscores the court’s commitment to safeguarding children from predators in educational settings.

The ruling has been hailed as a rare victory in addressing sexual violence against boys, a topic often overshadowed by cases involving female victims. Justice Otti praised the prosecution’s diligence, noting that cases of this nature rarely reach a conclusive end with justice served. “The lead prosecutor’s work was exceptional, ensuring that the victim’s voice was heard and the offender held accountable,” Otti remarked. The judge’s commendation highlights the importance of robust legal representation in tackling sensitive cases that challenge societal norms.

Anambra’s Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo, welcomed the verdict, emphasizing its significance in the state’s justice system. “This outcome sends a clear message that no one is above the law, and every child, regardless of gender, deserves protection,” Obinabo stated. She described the case as a pivotal moment in raising awareness about the vulnerability of boys to sexual abuse, urging communities to remain vigilant and report suspicious behavior. Obinabo’s remarks reflect a growing recognition that sexual violence is not confined to one gender, and justice must be equitable for all victims.

The case has ignited conversations across Anambra and beyond, with advocates calling for stronger measures to prevent abuse in schools. Parents and guardians are now urged to engage in open discussions with their children about personal safety, while educational institutions face increased scrutiny over their hiring and monitoring practices. The court’s decision to bar Ofomata from working with minors sets a precedent that could influence future cases, ensuring that convicted offenders are kept far from vulnerable populations.

As Anambra continues to strengthen its legal framework to combat sexual and gender-based violence, this ruling serves as a beacon of hope for victims and their families. It reaffirms the state’s commitment to delivering justice and fostering a safer environment for all children. For the 11-year-old boy at the heart of this case, the verdict offers a chance for healing and the assurance that his courage in coming forward has made a lasting impact.