In a landmark judgment, Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Lagos State Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court has convicted and sentenced an artisan, Peter Odu, to life imprisonment for the defilement of a 13-year-old housemaid.
The judge held that the prosecution proved the case of defilement beyond reasonable doubt, and he also took into account the impact of the convict’s actions on the young victim.
“The crime strikes at the heart of our society’s duty to protect its most vulnerable members. At the tender age of 12, the prosecutrix was placed in your family’s care, far from her home and bereft of her parents’ protection,” Oshodi said. “Instead of providing her with safety and guidance, you exploited her vulnerability for your desires. The physical and emotional trauma you have inflicted on this child is immeasurable and likely to have long-lasting effects on her life.”
The judge further emphasized that the law recognizes the severity of such offenses against children, and the court must enforce those laws to their fullest extent. He noted that Section 137 of the Criminal Law mandates life imprisonment for the defilement of a child, reflecting society’s utter condemnation of such acts.
“Therefore, according to the law and considering the grievous nature of your crime, I now sentence you, Peter Odu, to life imprisonment. You shall also be registered as a sex offender,” Oshodi stated.
The judge expressed hope that this sentence will serve not only as punishment for the convict’s actions but also as a deterrent to others who might contemplate similar heinous acts against children. He also expressed the hope that the convict would use his time in custody to reflect and reform.
This ruling underscores the court’s unwavering commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of society and ensuring that justice is served in the face of such heinous crimes.
