A Lagos State High Court has sentenced a 25-year-old teacher, Chukwunonso Okafor, to double life imprisonment for sexually assaulting a three-year-old pupil under his care. The Ikeja Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court found Okafor guilty of defilement, sexual assault by penetration, and sexual assault.
The victim, who is now five years old, testified in court about the abuse she suffered at the hands of Okafor, including vaginal penetration and forced oral sex. The abuse occurred between July and December 2022, while the victim was a student at the school where Okafor was employed.
Justice Abiola Soladoye, in her 45-page judgment, described Okafor's actions as "barbaric" and "a complete betrayal of the sacred trust placed in educators." The judge emphasized that the victim's account was consistent with medical evidence and corroborated by the first prosecution witness, leaving no reasonable doubt about Okafor's guilt.
Okafor was sentenced to life imprisonment under three separate counts:
1. Life imprisonment for sexual assault by penetration
2. Life imprisonment for defilement
3. Seven years imprisonment for sexual assault
The sentences will run concurrently, meaning Okafor will serve life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
The judgment has sparked conversations about child safety in educational institutions. The Lagos State government has announced plans to implement measures to prevent similar incidents, including mandatory background checks for school staff, installation of surveillance cameras in preschools, and specialized training for teachers.
The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency has committed to providing lifelong support for the victim, including comprehensive medical care, psychological counseling, educational scholarships, and legal assistance.
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