12-Year-Old Girl Alleges Assault by Traditional Ruler in Ondo State

A traditional ruler in Laaagba community, Ondo East Local Government Area of Ondo State, has been arrested by the Nigeria Police following allegations of assaulting a 12-year-old girl. The monarch, Chief Adeniyi Ifedayo, was taken into custody by officers of the Ondo Area Command.

According to the victim, she was lured to the chief's residence by a commercial motorcycle rider and kept there for two weeks. During her stay, she alleged that the traditional ruler fed her pap and assaulted her daily. The young girl, who is currently recuperating in an undisclosed health facility in Ondo town, recounted her ordeal with visible distress. "The Baale kept me in his house for two weeks and fed me with pap, while he assaulted me on a daily basis," she said, her voice trembling.

After two weeks, the monarch reportedly took her to a location in Akure, the Ondo State capital, and abandoned her. The victim's parents had raised an alarm about her disappearance, and her ordeal has sparked widespread concern. The community is shocked and outraged by the allegations, and many are calling for justice.

The Area Commander, Mr. T.Y. Pickson, confirmed the arrest and stated that the case has been transferred to the Ondo State Police Command in Akure for further investigation. "We take allegations of this nature very seriously, and we will ensure that a thorough investigation is conducted to establish the facts," he said.

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola, assured the public that the investigation is ongoing and that due process will be followed. "We urge the public to remain calm and allow the investigation to proceed without interference," he said. "We will ensure that justice is served, and the perpetrator will face the full weight of the law if found guilty."

The case has drawn attention from community members and child welfare advocates, who are calling for careful handling and full legal clarity. "This is a serious case that requires swift action," said a child rights activist. "We urge the authorities to ensure that the victim receives the necessary support and protection, and that the perpetrator is brought to justice."

As the investigation continues, the community is rallying around the victim and her family, offering support and solidarity. The case highlights the need for vigilance and swift action in addressing allegations of abuse and assault, particularly involving vulnerable individuals. The authorities must ensure that justice is served, and that the perpetrator is held accountable for their actions.