Officials from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps have apprehended a 76-year-old man in Abeokuta for allegedly committing rape against a 16-year-old girl which resulted in her pregnancy.
Adijat Adeleye, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development of Ogun, stated to reporters in Abeokuta on Saturday that the septuagenarian will be prosecuted to ensure justice is served for the victim.
The commissioner expressed concern over the escalating rate of sexual abuse happening within the country and implored victims to always speak out.
She also urged parents not to withdraw rape cases from legal proceedings. “The frequency of people reporting rape incidents only to subsequently withdraw their allegations with law enforcement is increasing. Parents are advised to report instances of child violation or mistreatment towards their wards directly to law enforcement agencies without withdrawing such charges until justice has been duly served.
Backing down from pressing charges serves as an incentive for offenders who may continue committing these heinous crimes,”Adeleye declared.
