Edo promises justice for 12-year-old defiled on Christmas eve

Edesili Anani, first lady of Edo state, has promised justice for a 12-year-old girl who was allegedly gang-raped on December 24. 

Five men reportedly raped and filmed the minor identified as Esther, in Igiafodo Awuyemi, Okpella, Etsako East LGA of the state.

Speaking on Thursday during a visit to the victim at the Diasy Ehainere Danjuma Centre, Anani said the state will ensure the perpetrators are brought to book.

The first lady, who condemned the perpetrators for filming and circulating the video on social media, said the online evidence will strengthen the case against them.

“The Edo state government will leave no stone unturned to ensure that these perpetrators are brought to book,” Anani said, according to a statement signed by Fred Itua, chief press secretary to the governor.

“Section 4 of the VAP law defines rape, while section 5 outlines the punishment. Edo state has zero tolerance for any form of violence, and we are standing firmly with the victim.

“The video footage makes it impossible for anyone to cover up this crime. The law will take its course, and these individuals will be dealt with decisively.”

She commended Lukeman Akemokue, the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella, and his wife, for bringing the case to light, while urging the police to ensure the victim gets justice.

“I really want to commend your Highness. He did a fantastic work with his wife. It happened in his community, Okpella Kingdom. They didn’t hide it,” the first lady said. 

“Immediately he saw the videos, he took it up, and I want to say when things like this happen, speak out.

“Speak up for somebody else, because tomorrow it could be your own child.”

Umoru Ozigi, the commissioner of police in the state, assured the first lady that the victim will get justice, adding that three persons have been arrested in connection with the crime.