The Ondo State Police Command says it will arraign a 23-year-old man, Emmanuel Usman, over the alleged rape of a 14-year-old girl in the Ijebu Owo area of the state.
It was learnt on Monday from a statement by the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, Abayomi Jimoh, that the arrest followed a report by the victim.
Jimoh noted that the victim alleged that the suspect dragged her into an office where he had carnal knowledge of her without her consent.
He stated, “The Ondo State Police Command under the leadership of CP Adebowale Lawal wishes to inform the general public of a reported case of defilement which is currently under thorough investigation by the Command’s Gender-Based Violence Unit.”
“The case was reported on the 29th of March, 2026, by a 14-year-old female (name withheld for confidentiality), a resident of Ijebu Owo.
“According to the report, the victim alleged that on the same date, one Emmanuel Usman ‘M’, aged 23 years, forcefully dragged her into his employer’s office located along Ijebu Owo, where he had unlawful carnal knowledge of her without her consent.”
The PPRO added that the victim also alleged that the suspect threatened her with dire consequences should she disclose the incident to anyone.
He added that the victim, however, defied the threat and reported to the police.
He continued, “Upon receipt of the report, operatives swiftly moved into action, leading to the arrest of the suspect. He is currently in police custody and has made useful statements that are aiding the investigation.
“He will be charged in court accordingly upon conclusion of the investigation. However, the victim has been taken to the General Hospital, Owo, where she received necessary medical care.”
Jimoh stated that necessary medical and psychological support has been offered to the victim, adding that the Commissioner of Police has directed that the case be handled with diligence, sensitivity, and urgency to ensure justice is served.
“The Command strongly condemns acts of defilement and all forms of abuse against minors and assures the public that such offenders will be brought to justice in accordance with the law.
“Parents, guardians, and members of the public are advised to remain vigilant, educate their wards on personal safety, and promptly report any suspicious or criminal activities to the nearest police station,” he concluded.
PUNCH Metro reported on March 22 that the command arrested a 21-year-old man, Alabi Anthony, for allegedly raping and killing a woman, Olaseni Veronica, in the Iboropa community in the Akoko North-East Local Government Area.
Credit: punchng.com
