Oduduwa News

An Ogun State High Court sitting in Abeokuta, on Monday, April 14, sentenced a 47-year-old secondary school teacher, Ojo Ezekiel, to life imprisonment for raping a seven-year-old girl.

Ojo Ezekiel, who was first arraigned on July 1, 2022, was convicted on a sole count of rape contrary to section 3 (1) and punishable under section 3 (2) of the violence against persons (prohibition) law of Ogun State 2017.

Ezekiel is said to be a teacher in the secondary school, which shares the same compound as the primary school that the victim attended.

The prosecuting counsel, Mr Olusegun Olaotan, had told the court that while the victim’s mother was bathing her seven-year-old daughter, she observed that something was wrong with her private part

The minor, however, after persistent questioning, revealed to her mother how she was sexually abused by the convict

Olaotan, in his final submission, said, “While giving her evidence in court, the second prosecution witness (PW2), who is the victim, said that the defendant used to pull aside her pant before inserting his finger into her vagina

Evidence of the third prosecution witness (PW3) (medical doctor) corroborates that of the second prosecution witness. She testified that in the course of examining the (PW2), she discovered that the hymen of the PW2 was not intact. it was opened by 2cm.

He said that PW2 evidence is corroborative of the fact that she was sexually abused indeed, and the same was further corroborated by exhibits two and three as well as the evidence of (PW1), the mother of the child who noticed while bathing her that something was wrong with her private part.

Olaotan, further revealed that the victim mentioned the name of the defendant as the only person who repeatedly four times inserted his finger into the private part of the under-age girl

The victim reportedly told the court that the defendant usually carried out this heinous crime inside his car, parked under a tree after school hours, after which he would instruct the victim not to tell anyone, or else she would be beaten.

Olaotan thereafter urged the court to go ahead and punish the defendant for his misdeeds as evidence before the court was quite overwhelming and weighty enough to hold that the defendant was guilty of rape and should be convicted accordingly.

The judge, Hon. Justice Abiodun Akinyemi said the prosecuting counsel had established the case of rape against the accused and thereafter sentenced him to life imprisonment.

The Oyo State House of Assembly has commended Governor Seyi Makinde for approving the report of the House Committee set up to review the integration of SUBEB-seconded teachers into the Post Primary Schools Teaching Service Commission, TESCOM.

The Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin gave the commendation on Tuesday shortly after the letter of approval from the Head of Service was read by the Clerk, Mrs. Oludara Awe at the floor of the house.

The Speaker said it was a cheering news that the issue which started during the administration of late Governor Abiola Ajimobi had eventually been resolved by Governor Seyi Makinde.

” I will like to appreciate Governor Seyi Makinde for this resolution. We need to recall that not less than 2000 Primary School teachers in Oyo State were seconded to the Post-Primary Schools Teaching Service Commission, TESCOM in 2017 during the era of late Governor Abiola Ajimobi. This was a very complicated issue but we are happy that with the political will of His Excellency, Engr Seyi Makinde, the issue has been resolved. I will also like to appreciate the Governor for responding to the yearnings of the people especially the affected teachers” Oyo Speaker said.

The letter reads in part ” I wish to refer to the above subject matters, and inform you that the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde has graciously approved the report of the Committee set up to review the integration of SUBEB-seconded teachers into the Post Primary School Teaching Service Commission in line with the public service procedures on secondment of staff for efficiency and effectiveness. Consequent upon this development, the Governor has approved (1) That the 54 SUBEB-seconded teachers to TESCOM who had expressed their desire to return to SUBEB should be allowed to do so considering their qualifications and willingness.

“(2) That only the SUBEB seconded teachers with relevant teaching subjects at the secondary schools level should be considered for integration into TESCOM. Therefore, the 20 SUBEB staff whose certificates are relevant to teaching only at the primary schools should return to SUBEB.

“(3) That the 509 SUBEB seconded teachers on Grade Levels 14 and above should return to SUBEB to promote efficiency and effective service delivery except those already assigned duty posts in TESCOM and are willing to remain in TESCOM. (4) That the remaining 1123 seconded SUBEB staff not included in the above-mentioned three categories should remain in TESCOM and enjoy seamless career progression.

“The certified list of all the affected teachers in the three categories have been forwarded to the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ministry of Finance, Oyo State Post Primary Schools Teaching Service Commission, TESCOM, Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, SUBEB and other stakeholders for implementation, and strick compliance.”

Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have invaded a State High Court sitting in Ilaro, Ogun State, arresting two defendants.

Our correspondent reports that the development has generated outrage.

The defendants , Alhaji Isiaka Fatai and Samuel Oyero, were trial in a suit marked HCP/IC/2023 between the State vs Awode Oladosu & 13 others.

The court was presided over by Justice A.A. Shobayo.

The case bordered on an allegation of arson reported by one Chief Akeem Adigun (aka Socopao) against Alhaji Isiaka Fatai, Oyero and 12 others.

Agosasa community in Ipokia Local Government Area of the state was recently enmeshed in crisis, with property worth billions of naira destroyed and one life lost over an Obaship tussle in the town.

But there was a pandemonium when operatives of DSS stormed the court premises and took away the suspects.

Counsel to Alhaji Isiaka, Kehinde Bamiwola, in a statement , alleged that men of the DSS operatives used weapons on the two, stressing that “Alhaji Isiaka Fatai was beaten, slapped, man-handled, rough-handled and molested.”

The Principal Registrar of the High Court and Sectional Head of High Court, Ilaro, Comrade Omololu Olusanya, who confirmed the incident, described it as shocking and disrespectful to the rule of law.

He noted that even after the judge had ordered the operatives not to make any arrest within the court premises, they still proceeded to arrest the two persons.

“They still went ahead and did the act to the extent that they assaulted one of our staff members, Mrs. Fadina, while doing that act. It’s a very sad issue that caused a lot of noise within the court premises.

“It was from the source that we heard they were DSS agents. If anybody sees them, one would think they were armed robbers.

“They did not wear anything that identified them as DSS, but they came to my lord this morning and said they had some people to arrest. That was when we knew they were DSS officers.

“They approached the judge before the court session began. The honorable judge advised them that if they wanted to make an arrest, it must not be done within the court premises.

“They could stay outside and do whatever they wanted, but they refused that advice and carried out the arrest within the premises.” he said.

Peter Afunanya, DSS spokesman, did not answer calls or reply a text message sent at the time of filing this report.

The Lagos State Government is determined to crack down on unregistered persons and entities involved in real estate activities in the region.

During a recent 2024 Ministerial Press Briefing, Lagos State Commissioner for Housing Moruf Akinderu-Fatai made it known that this action will be taken.

Akinderu-Fatai cautioned that unlicensed real estate agents will be subject to legal repercussions if they fail to adhere to the registration guidelines of the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority.

He emphasized that this warning was necessary to promote orderliness and eliminate fraudulent practices in the real estate industry within the state.

He urged residents to be cautious about the real estate agents they collaborate with to prevent falling into the hands of fake and deceitful agents.

In his words, “It is crucial that we communicate the message widely that it is unlawful for an individual or organization to participate in real estate operations in Lagos State without registration with LASRERA. Let us act responsibly and adhere to legal requirements.”

“I would like to take this moment to emphasize the importance of residents avoiding fraudulent estate agents and instead supporting registered real estate professionals and organizations,” he declared.

Lagos Reporters is thrilled to bring you the latest scoop from the glamorous 10th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) which took place at the prestigious Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos State on Saturday. The star-studded event celebrated the best in African film and television, showcasing talent from across the continent.

In a night filled with glitz and glamour, Kehinde Bankole and Wale Ojo emerged as the big winners, clinching the titles of Best Actress and Best Actor respectively. Their exceptional performances in their respective roles captivated audiences and critics alike, solidifying their places as top talents in the industry.

Adding to the excitement, the movie “Breathe of Life” took home the coveted award for Best Movie of the year. The film’s compelling narrative and stellar cast resonated with viewers, making it a standout choice for the prestigious accolade.

Renowned TV personality Ik Osakioduwa once again captivated the audience with his wit and charm as he returned to host the AMVCA for the 10th consecutive year, adding his signature flair to the star-studded event.

In recognition of their outstanding contributions to the film industry, Chimezie Imo was honored with the Trailblazer Award, while the esteemed Industry Merit Awards were bestowed upon Richard Mofe Damijo and Idowu Philips, fondly known as Iya Rainbow. These veteran actors have left an indelible mark on the industry, inspiring generations of filmmakers and actors with their talent and dedication.

As Lagos Reporters, we are proud to salute all the winners and nominees who dazzled on the AMVCA stage, showcasing the rich tapestry of African storytelling and talent that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Stay tuned for more updates from the entertainment world as we bring you the latest news and highlights from the African entertainment scene.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has flagged off the payment of compensation to property owners affected by the proposed Ekiti State Ring Road project.

The Ring Road project is a major infrastructure development conceived by the past administration to reduce traffic gridlock within Ado-Ekiti, boost Ekiti’s connectivity, and intensify infrastructural and industrial development within the state. The project will span Iworoko, Are, Afao, Araromi Obo, and Ago Aduloju, all in Ado-Ekiti.

Governor Oyebanji who was represented at the event by the State Head of Service, Mr Sunday Komolafe, reaffirmed his commitment to obeying the rule of law, specifically the Land Use Act, by compensating all affected property owners before any demolition.

He also disclosed that compensation payments for other projects including the Airport Project and the Central Business District at Atikankan are in progress. The Governor thanked the claimants for their sacrifices and requested their cooperation to ensure an orderly and transparent compensation process.

The Special Adviser/Director General E-GIS/Land Management, Mr Akintobi Olusanmi reaffirmed Ekiti State Government’s commitment to the welfare of the people which is evidenced by the consistent and prompt compensation of property holders in these situations.

He recalled the recent compensation event held in March 2024 for those impacted by the 2nd Flyover Project in Ado-Ekiti and remarked that the State will remain consistent just as in the past. Mr Olusanmi stated that claimants must submit their National Identification Number (NIN) and two passport-sized photographs for bank processing to receive compensation.

The continuation of old projects and the compensation process is a key step toward the State’s infrastructural development and it reflects the BAO administration’s dedication to creating a conducive environment for investment, industrialisation, progressive continuity, and protection of private properties.