The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a 25-year-old man for allegedly defiling a 12-year-old girl (name withheld) in the Ayobo area of Lagos State.
Spokesperson for the command, Chief Superintendent of Police Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the arrest to PUNCH Metro on Sunday.
“The suspect has indeed been apprehended,” Hundeyin said.
The case of the 12-year-old girl gained public attention after the victim’s brother, identified as @ifeanyiedozie10 on X.com, raised an alarm online.
In his post, he alleged that the suspect’s family attempted to trivialise the matter, referring to it as a “boyfriend and girlfriend issue.”
“Nigerians, please help me and my family. The culprit’s family is claiming it’s a boyfriend and girlfriend issue,” he lamented.
The brother also accused some community leaders of mounting pressure on their family to drop the case.
“The landlords of the community came with a pastor, telling us to forgive and settle it,” he wrote.
Following the viral post, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency reacted on Saturday, expressing serious concern and confirming it was working with the police to ensure justice.
“We are deeply concerned by the disturbing incident,” the agency expressed in a statement.
“Our thoughts are first and foremost with the young survivor and her family during this incredibly difficult time,” it added.
The DSVA stated that it had taken up the case and was collaborating closely with the police.
“The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency is actively involved in this case, and investigations are already underway in close collaboration with the Police Force.
“The case has been referred to the Gender Desk Unit, and the alleged perpetrator is currently in custody at the Ayobo Police Station,” the statement continued.
The agency also confirmed that the survivor had been referred to the Ipaja Family Support Unit and Psychosocial Services to ensure she receives immediate and comprehensive psychosocial support and medical care.
“We are also in direct contact with the survivor’s family to offer our full support.
“We deeply appreciate the vigilance of the public in bringing this matter to light, as community awareness plays a vital role in safeguarding our children,” DSVA noted.
The agency affirmed its commitment to securing justice for survivors of sexual violence and ensuring that perpetrators are held fully accountable under the law.
