The Lagos State Police Command has taken swift action in response to distressing reports of sexual assault, arresting two suspects identified as Augustine Udeh and Adepoju Moses. The alleged incidents involved the rape of two teenagers in different parts of the state.
According to Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, the arrest of Augustine Udeh occurred in Surulere after Nene Badmus reported that her daughter had confided in her about the rape. The concerned mother found her daughter in tears on the roadside, prompting her to seek justice for her child.
Upon receiving the information, the police acted promptly, leading to the arrest of the suspect. Adejobi shared the details, stating, “On March 12, 2024, at approximately 10:30 pm, Nene Badmus reported to the Surulere Divisional Headquarters, Lagos State, that earlier that day around 7 pm, she found her 16-year-old daughter lying down by the roadside, crying and complaining of abdominal pain and bleeding. Her daughter disclosed that Augustine Udeh, aged 33, had violated her by engaging in unlawful sexual intercourse. Detectives from the division accompanied the young girl to a medical center for examination and subsequently arrested the suspect.”
Regarding Adepoju Moses, Adejobi explained that Moses had initially reported a suspected rape case on February 23, which led to the arrest of another individual. However, during the subsequent investigation, it was discovered that Moses himself was the alleged perpetrator.
Surprisingly, he coerced the victim, a 13-year-old orphan, into falsely accusing the primary suspect. Adejobi clarified the situation, stating, “On February 23, 2024, around 11:50 p.m., Adepoju Ifedayo Moses reported to the Ifako Gbagada Divisional Headquarters in Lagos that at around 9 p.m. on the same day, he sent his 13-year-old younger sister, an orphan, on an errand. She was approached by a 38-year-old male, who took her into his room and assaulted her.
Detectives from the division swiftly responded to the scene, rescued the victim, and arrested the suspect. However, a thorough investigation later revealed that it was Adepoju Ifedayo, the victim’s uncle, who had actually committed the crime and coerced the victim into falsely accusing the initial suspect.”
During the search of Moses’ house, the police found two locally made pistols and three expended cartridges, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
Adejobi reaffirmed the commitment of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to ensuring that perpetrators of sexual offenses face justice. He stressed the urgent need for public education on consent, respect, and healthy relationships. By fostering a culture that promotes respect, dignity, and equality, efforts can be made to prevent such abhorrent acts from occurring.
Addressing the issue of rape and defilement requires a collective effort from all members of society. It necessitates speaking out against injustice, supporting and protecting survivors, and working towards a future where every individual can live without the fear of sexual harassment and violence. Adejobi concluded by urging everyone to come together to put an end to these reprehensible crimes.
