Edo vows justice for 12-year-old gang-rape victim

The Edo State Government has pledged to ensure that the five men accused of gang-raping a 12-year-old girl in Igiafodo Awuyemi, Etsako East Local Government Area, face the full wrath of the law.

The brutal incident, which occurred on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2024, has sparked widespread outrage across the state.

Fred Itua, spokesperson for Governor Monday Okpebholo, issued a statement quoting Mrs. Edesili Anani, Administrator of the Office of the Edo State First Lady, during her visit to the victim at the Daisy Ehanire Danjuma Centre in Benin City.

Mrs. Anani assured the public that the state government would invoke the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law to prosecute the accused.

“The Edo State Government will leave no stone unturned to ensure that these perpetrators are brought to book. Section 4 of the VAPP Law defines rape, while Section 5 outlines the punishment. Edo State has zero tolerance for any form of violence, and we stand firmly with the victim,” she stated.

Anani condemned the alleged perpetrators for reportedly filming their crime and circulating the footage on social media. She emphasized that the evidence further strengthens the case against them.

“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 added.

The government praised the swift intervention of His Royal Highness, Lukeman Akemokue, the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella, and his wife, Blessing Akemokue, who brought the case to light.

The couple ensured the victim and her mother were relocated to Benin City for safety and medical care following threats against their lives.

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“I want to commend His Royal Highness for acting promptly and not hiding the crime.

He and his wife took decisive steps, ensuring the victim’s safety. When such incidents occur, it is crucial to speak out because tomorrow it could be someone else’s child,” Mrs. Anani said.

During her visit to the Edo State Police Headquarters, Anani commended the police for their prompt response and urged them to ensure justice for the victim.

Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Umoru Ozigi, assured her of the police’s commitment to justice, revealing that three suspects are currently in custody.

“We are taking this case very seriously and will ensure that the victim gets the justice she deserves,” CP Ozigi stated.

The case has reignited discussions about the enforcement of the VAPP Law and the importance of community vigilance in reporting and addressing violence against vulnerable individuals.

The Edo State Government reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on violence, urging communities to report crimes promptly.

“This is a collective responsibility. The government will always support victims, but communities must also play their part in ensuring justice and safety,” Anani concluded.