NGO Accuses Police of Compromise in Minor’s Defilement Case

The Advocates for Children and Vulnerable Persons Network (ACVPN) has raised concerns over an alleged attempt by the police to compromise a case involving the defilement of a 15-year-old girl in the Ifako-Gbagada area of Lagos State. The suspect, known as Fred, is accused of repeatedly defiling the victim over a two-year period, resulting in two alleged pregnancies and forced abortions.

According to PUNCH Metro, the victim’s guardian reportedly consulted an auxiliary nurse who performed the abortions. The perpetrators were arrested after ACVPN reported the incident at the Ifako police station. However, ACVPN’s case manager, Jennifer Nwosu, revealed that some individuals sympathetic to the suspects, including the nurse, were allegedly trying to prevent the minor from getting justice.

Nwosu also expressed concerns that the Gender Unit of the police station where the case was transferred had not taken the victim to an emergency shelter provided for minors. Despite efforts to seek the intervention of the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development, no response was received.

The Chief Operating Officer of ACVPN, Ebenezer Omejalile, urged the police not to compromise the case, citing a similar incident where a suspect involved in a case of harassment against a 13-year-old was released without prosecution. The state Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, stated that he would look into the case and provide further information.

The situation highlights the challenges faced in prosecuting cases of child abuse and the need for strong enforcement and protection measures for minors. It also underscores the importance of ensuring that victims receive the necessary support and protection to prevent further harm.