A Chief Magistrate Court in Akure, the Ondo State capital, has remanded Oluwasegun Victor, a 31-year-old pastor, in prison custody following his arrest for allegedly raping and impregnating a minor.
Victor, who was apprehended by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) State Command, faces a single charge of unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor. The alleged incident took place in the Oba Ile Community, situated in Akure North Local Government Area of the state.
During the court proceedings, NSCDC prosecutor Mr. David Ebriku argued that Victor’s alleged actions breached Section 31(1) of the Child Rights Laws of Ondo State 2007, which prohibits such acts, and is punishable under Section 31(2) of the same laws. Ebriku requested that the defendant be remanded at a correctional centre pending further legal action.
In response, the defense counsel, Mr. Alex Olademehin, sought additional time to address the remand application and provide a formal response.
Chief Magistrate Mr. Taiwo Lebi granted the request for remand and ordered that Victor be held at a correctional facility. The court scheduled the next hearing for September 19, 2024, to consider the bail application and further proceedings in the case.
This case highlights ongoing concerns regarding the protection of minors and the enforcement of child rights laws in the region.