The Edo State Government has vowed to secure justice for a 12-year-old girl who was allegedly gang-raped by five men on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2024, in Igiafodo Awuyemi, Okpella, Etsako East Local Government Area.
Mrs. Edesili Anani, Administrator of the Office of the Edo State First Lady, made this commitment during a visit to the victim, Esther, at the Daisy Ehanire Danjuma Centre. She assured that the perpetrators would face the full wrath of the law under the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law.
“The Edo State Government will leave no stone unturned to ensure that these perpetrators are brought to book,” Mrs. Anani stated. She emphasized the state’s zero-tolerance policy for violence and pledged unwavering support for the victim.
The crime, which was filmed and circulated on social media by the perpetrators, has elicited widespread condemnation. Mrs. Anani highlighted that the video evidence strengthens the case and ensures transparency in the pursuit of justice.
Commending the swift intervention of the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella, His Royal Highness Lukeman Akemokue, and his wife, Blessing, Mrs. Anani praised their efforts in bringing the case to light and ensuring the safety and well-being of the victim and her mother by relocating them to Benin City.
His Royal Highness Akemokue expressed gratitude to the Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and the Office of the First Lady for their prompt response, assuring continued community support for the administration’s efforts.
During a visit to the Edo State Police Headquarters, Mrs. Anani commended the police for their swift action and appealed for justice for the young victim.
Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Umoru Ozigi, confirmed that three suspects are currently in custody and assured that the case would be thoroughly investigated to ensure justice is served.
