By Felix Kuyinu
The Special Offences and Domestic Violence Court in Ikeja Lagos has on Tuesday sentenced 32-year-old Chukwudi Anyanwu to life in prison over a rape act on a minor.
The suspect, a software engineer, defiled his neighbour’s 13-year-old daughter at Thomas Animashaun Street, Aguda, Surulere, Lagos where they reside.
At the court proceedings, Police Prosecutor, Inspector Rebecca Jacob, told the court that Anyawu committed the offence on May 27, 2021.
While delivering his judgment, Justice Rahman Oshodi held that the prosecution, Insp Jacob and ASP Iyabo Dawodu proved the charge of defilement against the convict.
Oshodi said that the evidence of the survivor was corroborated by the medical report and that of her guardian, also noting that the alibi and the issue of extortion which the convict relied on did not hold waters.
He said the convict exploited his position of familiarity and authority to lure the survivor into his room on Children’s Day and subjected her to the harrowing ordeal of sexual abuse.
The judge added that the convict’s action had undoubtedly inflicted deep psychological wounds that might take a lifetime to heal.
Oshodi told the Convict: “You have shown a troubling lack of integrity and remorse throughout the proceedings and when you were confronted by the victim’s guardian about the heinous act, you initially denied any wrongdoing.
“However, when the young brave victim repeated the details of your abuse in your presence, you resorted to begging for forgiveness, claiming it was the work of the devil.
“This attempt to evade responsibility and downplay the severity of your action is reprehensible. Even more concerning is that you expressed your intention to bribe the police to suppress the case and protect your reputation.
“This blatant disregard for the law and attempt to pervert the cause of justice is a serious aggravating factor that cannot be overlooked,” he said.
The judge continued stating that the court must ensure that justice was served and the society receive a clear message that perpetrators of such act would face the wrath of the law.
He gave his ruling saying, “I hope this sentence brings some measures of closure and helps her [the victim] on the path of healing. I now sentence you, Chukwudi Anyanwu, to the mandatory life sentence under Section 137 of the Criminal Law (Supra).
“This sentence reflect the gravity of your actions and the need to protect vulnerable members of our society from predatory individuals like yourself.
“During your time in the custodial centre, I hope you reflect on the immense harm you have caused and take steps towards rehabilitation.”
