24th October, 2016
A 27-year -old man, Essien Effiong, who allegedly defiled a four-year-old girl was on Monday arraigned in Lagos.
Effiong, who resides at Ajegunle in Lagos, is facing a count charge of defilement at an Apapa Senior Magistrates’ Court.
The Prosecutor, Sgt. Kokoye Olusegun, told the court that the accused committed the offence on Sept. 8 at his residence.
Olusegun said the accused lured the girl into his apartment with biscuit and had carnal knowledge of her without.
“When the girl tried to escape the accused forcefully dragged her back into his room and started putting his fingers into her private part.
“When the pain was too much for the girl, she started screaming and a neighbor, who was passing by the room at the time, heard her voice.
“The woman immediately bashed into the room and to her surprise the accused was naked and was inserting his finger into the girl’s private part.
“The case was reported to the police and the accused was immediately arrested,’’ Olusegun said.
The prosecutor said the offence contravened Section 137 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty.
Section 137 prescribes life imprisonment upon conviction for child rape.
The Senior Magistrate, Mr M.A. Etti, granted the accused bail in the sum of N50, 000 with a surety in like sum.
The case was adjourned till Nov.1 for mention.