Police detectives in Ondo State have arrested the community head (Baale) of Laaagba community in Ondo East Local Government Area, Chief Adeniyi Ifedayo, for the alleged rape of a 12-year-old girl.
According to reports, the suspect allegedly lured the victim to his house, held her captive for two weeks, and sexually assaulted her repeatedly. The girl, now hospitalized, recounted her ordeal:
“The Baale kept me in his house for two weeks and fed me with pap, while he assaulted me sexually on a daily basis. My parents became worried about my whereabouts and eventually raised an alarm, declaring me missing. After two weeks, the Baale took me on a motorcycle and dumped me at a location in Akure, the Ondo State capital.”
The victim explained that she was initially taken to the suspect’s house by a commercial motorcycle rider.
Police Area Commander T. Y. Pickson confirmed the arrest, stating that the case has been transferred to the State Police Command in Akure for further investigation.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, Ayanlade Olayinka, also confirmed the transfer, adding that detectives at the State Police Headquarters have launched a thorough probe into the incident.
The Ondo State chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists has strongly condemned the alleged sexual abuse. In a statement jointly signed by Chairperson Tola Gbadamosi and Secretary Oluwatosin Ighoteguono, the association demanded justice for the victim.
“We urge the Ondo State Government and security agencies to ensure the suspect faces the full weight of the law. We demand transparency and accountability in the investigation and prosecution of this case,” the statement read.
NAWOJ also called on parents, guardians, and communities to be more vigilant in protecting children from abuse and exploitation. The association emphasized the need for stronger laws and policies to safeguard children’s rights and hold perpetrators accountable.
