Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have apprehended a 55-year-old man for reportedly committing incest and sexually violating his teenage niece.
Suspect in Custody Following Community Report
The suspect, identified as Ademola Joshua, was arrested in Ilara-Mokin, within the Ifedore Local Council Area of the state. His arrest followed a formal complaint lodged at the local police station by a community resident named Adewale.
Adewale had grown suspicious that Joshua was involved in unlawful sexual activities with his own sister's daughter, who is just 15 years old. This prompt report by a vigilant citizen triggered immediate police action.
GBV Unit Launches Pregnancy Investigation
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for Ondo State, Jimoh Abayomi, stated that the case was swiftly transferred to the command's Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Unit for a discreet and comprehensive investigation.
A critical aspect of the probe is to enquire into the cause of the victim's pregnancy. The police are working to establish all facts surrounding this deeply disturbing allegation.
"Upon receipt of this disturbing report, the case was immediately referred to the Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Unit of the Command for discreet and thorough investigation," stated PPRO Abayomi. "The suspect is currently in custody and will be charged in court upon the conclusion of investigations."
Police Reaffirm Commitment to Protecting Vulnerable Groups
The Ondo State Police Command used this occasion to reiterate its dedication to safeguarding women and children. The command assured the public of its resolve to protect their rights and dignity, promising that perpetrators would face the full consequences of the law.
"The Command reiterates its unwavering commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of women and children and to ensuring that perpetrators of sexual and gender-based violence are made to face the full weight of the law without compromise," Abayomi emphasized.
The statement further linked the arrest to the broader policing vision of the Inspector-General of Police, which promotes gender-sensitive policing and robust responses to sexual and gender-based violence across Nigeria.
The PPRO also commended the public for their courage in reporting the crime and urged continued vigilance. "While appreciating members of the public for their timely and courageous reporting, the Command urges all residents to remain vigilant and continue to provide credible and actionable information to the police for swift intervention. Together, we can build a safer society for our children and generations unborn," he concluded.
The arrest, which occurred following the report on 5 January 2026, underscores the critical role of community awareness and prompt reporting in combating sexual abuse and incest.
