A High Court in Delta State, sitting at Agbor (Family Court) and presided over by Hon. Justice C. N. Ogadi, has convicted and sentenced a minor (name withheld) for raping a young lady.
The defendant was arraigned before the court on a charge of rape punishable under Section 358 of the Criminal Code Law of Delta State.
The prosecuting state counsel, Mrs M A. Tanno, gives the particulars of the offence: “That on or about the 22nd day of January 2020, at Omeligboma Camp Asaba, within the Agbor Family Court Judicial division, had carnal knowledge of the victim without her consent”
The defendant pleaded not guilty to the one count charge. In proof of its case the prosecution fielded three (3) witnesses. At the close of the prosecution’s case, the defendant testified and called no witness in his defence.
At the close of the prosecution’s case, the defendant testified and called no witness in his defence. But in his witness disposition, he agreed that he had sexual intercourse with the victim and pleaded for mercy through the defence counsel.
The court thereafter sentenced the defendant to three years imprisonment.
In another development, Delta State Police Commissioner (CP), Wale Abass, has ordered the arrest and detention of an errant police inspector for a thorough and speedy investigation.
The Inspector had shot one Lucky (surname unknown) at Ekrerhavwe Junction, Agbarho, while on stop and search duty.
The CP, on receipt of the sad news, immediately directed that the officer be immediately transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, (CID), Asaba.
“I can assure you that the offending officer will be subjected to internal disciplinary measures including criminal prosecution. The force, being a disciplined organisation, will not condone such cruel action by any member of the Force” Abass noted.
