Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Lagos State Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court, on Monday, 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.
He also added that he held the prosecution’s comments and 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.
“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,” Oshodi said.
The judge further held that the law recognises the severity of such offences against children, and the court must enforce those laws to their fullest extent.
Oshodi said, “I have carefully considered the facts of the case and the evidence presented. 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.
“This court hopes that this sentence will serve not only as punishment for your actions but also as a deterrent to others who might contemplate similar heinous acts against children. May it also provide some measure of justice and closure for victims.”
Justice Oshodi said he hoped the convict would use his time in custody to reflect and reform. (Punch)