Korede Abdullah in Lagos
In a significant ruling, the Ikeja Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court has sentenced Arabic teacher Oladosu Sakiru to 21 years in prison for attempting to sexually assault a 13-year-old pupil.
Justice Rahman Oshodi delivered the sentence after Sakiru pleaded guilty to two amended charges of attempted sexual assault by penetration and indecent treatment of a child.
The judge emphasized the breach of trust that Sakiru committed against the victim’s family, who had entrusted their child to him in a religious educational setting.
During the judgment, Justice Oshodi noted that the evidence presented revealed a disturbing pattern of predatory behavior, highlighting that Sakiru subjected the young girl to inappropriate touching and attempted to force himself on her.
The judge pointedly remarked on Sakiru’s attempt to deflect responsibility, stating, “It was the work of the devil,” when confronted with his actions.
Oshodi underscored the grave implications of such betrayals by individuals in positions of trust, stressing that the court must respond with the severity that reflects societal condemnation of such heinous acts.
The court imposed a 14-year sentence for the first count and a 7-year term for the second, with the sentences to run consecutively. In addition, Sakiru’s name will be added to the Lagos State Sexual Offences Register.
The prosecution, led by Ms. Bukola Okeowo, argued for a stringent sentence, emphasizing the gravity of the offenses committed between February and March 2022, while the defense counsel, Mr. Nelson Onyejaka, pleaded for leniency, citing Sakiru’s status as a first-time offender and his responsibilities to his two wives.
Initially pleading not guilty during his arraignment on March 17, 2023, Sakiru later opted for a plea bargain, leading to the amended charges.
The prosecution had presented compelling testimony from the survivor and her father, which ultimately influenced the court’s decision.
The judge concluded his remarks by asserting the importance of maintaining trust in societal roles, stating, “You betrayed this trust in the most deplorable manner.”
