The Ondo State Police Command has made a significant arrest in a disturbing case of child sexual abuse, apprehending a 32-year-old man for allegedly defiling a 13-year-old girl on multiple occasions in the Ile-Oluji/Oke Igbo Local Government Area.
Suspect Apprehended Following Timely Report
According to police spokesperson DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the arrest occurred on February 5, 2026, after a concerned citizen named Uchenna reported the crime at the local police station. The report indicated that the sexual abuse had taken place earlier that day at approximately 4:00 PM in the Asio area of Ile-Oluji.
Police operatives responded immediately to the report, successfully rescuing the young victim and transporting her for urgent medical examination. The swift action led to the apprehension of the suspect, identified as Osita James, who was taken into custody without delay.
Confession and Previous Abuse Allegations
During preliminary investigations, the suspect reportedly made useful statements and confessed to committing the crime. More disturbingly, the victim disclosed that James had allegedly subjected her to similar sexual abuse on several occasions prior to the February 5 incident.
DSP Jimoh confirmed that the suspect remains in police custody and will be formally charged to court once investigations are concluded. The police have emphasized their commitment to thorough investigation and proper prosecution of this sensitive case.
Police Leadership and National Policing Vision
The arrest aligns with the policing vision of Inspector-General of Police IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, whose reform-driven leadership focuses on strengthening gender-sensitive policing approaches. The Ondo State Police Command, under Commissioner of Police Adebowale Lawal, has emphasized their dedication to promoting accountability and enhancing strategic responses to sexual and gender-based violence across Nigeria.
In their official statement, the police command highlighted their resolve to translate this national vision into visible actions that build public trust and enhance community safety, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Appeal for Public Vigilance and Reporting
While commending the timely and courageous reporting by community members that led to this arrest, the Ondo State Police Command has urged all residents to remain vigilant against crimes targeting children. Authorities have encouraged continued provision of credible and actionable information to enable swift police intervention in similar cases.
The police statement concluded with a call for collective action, stating: "Together, we can build a safer society for our children and generations unborn." This case highlights the ongoing challenges of child protection in Nigerian communities and the critical importance of community-police collaboration in addressing sexual violence against minors.
