Justice Abiola Soladoye of the Ikeja Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court, on Tuesday, sentenced a head teacher, Benjamin Ogba, to life imprisonment for defiling two underage girls, who are both seven years old.
Justice Abiola Soladoye’s sentencing of Benjamin Ogba to life imprisonment for the defilement of two seven-year-old girls highlights a strong stance against sexual offenses, particularly against minors. The court’s decision, which emphasized that the prosecution met the burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt, reflects a commitment to ensuring justice for victims of such heinous crimes.
The judge’s characterization of Ogba as a “serial paedophile” and her remarks about the defense witnesses’ testimonies indicate a thorough examination of the evidence presented, underscoring the serious nature of the charges. This case serves as a significant reminder of the legal system’s role in addressing and punishing sexual violence, especially against vulnerable populations.
Such verdicts are crucial for both justice and public awareness, as they can deter similar offenses and encourage other victims to come forward.
This is a powerful excerpt highlighting the serious nature of sexual abuse cases, especially involving minors, and the judiciary’s role in delivering justice. The judge’s remarks emphasize the importance of truthfulness in testimonies and the need for accountability, particularly for those in positions of authority, like teachers.
The ruling to impose life imprisonment on the convict reflects a commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and sending a strong message against such heinous acts. Additionally, the encouragement for parents to report abuse and raise awareness showcases the importance of community involvement in preventing and addressing sexual violence.
It’s crucial for society to continue advocating for the rights of children and ensuring that cases like this are taken seriously and handled with the utmost urgency. Continuous education and awareness are vital in combating the issue of sexual abuse.
She said: “The convict and his fellow defence witnesses were not truthful and credible in their testimonies, during the trial. Their testimonies were a pack of lies and fell asunder like a pack of cards.
“This serial paedophile, a head teacher, who is expected to teach his students morals, stooped so low and defiled the underage girls. What a shame!
“This irresponsible and randy teacher, who teaches his students nonsense, should be locked away,” she ruled.
The judge also praised the two survivors for their courage to speak up in court against their assailant.
She said that sexual abuse of any sort must be reported and not swept under the carpet.
Soladoye further urged parents not to relent in reporting sexual abuse cases to the appropriate authorities.
“Continuous education and awareness of this issue of sexual menace must be at the forefront of all stakeholders in the administration of justice to advocate the rights of young children.
“The defendant, having been found guilty of the two counts bordering on defilement, is hereby sentenced to life imprisonment on each of the counts.
“The sentencing, will however, run concurrently and his name registered in the Sex Offences Register as maintained by the Lagos State,” she said.
During the trial, the state prosecution counsel, Mr. Olusola Soneye, called three witnesses while the defence counsel called four witnesses.
The prosecutor said the convict committed the offence sometime in April and May 10, 2019, at Shalom Private School, Oke-Ira Road, Ebutte Metta in Lagos.
He said Ogba defiled the two survivors by having unlawful sexual intercourse with them.
The prosecutor also told the court that one of the girls, however, informed her mother and the case was reported at the police station.
According to the prosecutor, the offence contravened Section 137 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2015.
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