Child Rights Group Demands Probe into Release of Child Abuse Suspects in Lagos
A prominent child rights organization, the Advocates for Children and Vulnerable Persons Network (ACVPN), has issued a formal appeal to the Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro. The group is urging an immediate and thorough investigation into what it describes as the "questionable release" and alleged mishandling of several child sexual abuse cases by a state prosecutor. This call to action highlights growing concerns over the integrity of justice processes involving minors in the state.
Allegations of Undermined Justice in Ikorodu Court
ACVPN has specifically requested that the Lagos State Ministry of Justice scrutinize the activities of a prosecutor attached to Magistrate Court 1 in Agbowa, Ikorodu. The group alleges that this prosecutor's actions are systematically undermining justice in multiple cases involving children, potentially allowing perpetrators to evade accountability. In a statement to journalists, ACVPN co-founder and Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Ebenezer Omejalile, detailed several instances that have raised alarm bells within the advocacy community.
Specific Cases Cited by the Advocacy Network
The organization referenced a particularly troubling case from October 2025, where a suspect was allegedly caught sexually abusing a 15-year-old girl in Ikorodu. Charged under relevant provisions of the Lagos State Criminal Law, the suspect was reportedly released without the knowledge of the complainant, sparking serious questions about due process and transparency. In another instance, a "notorious land grabber" accused of subjecting his daughter to sexual abuse had his case, filed in 2023 at the same court, allegedly stalled after his release under what ACVPN terms "false pretences." The prosecutor reportedly described the matter as a "family issue" in court, further complicating legal proceedings.
Bail Decisions and Obstruction of Justice Claims
ACVPN also highlighted a case involving a sports presenter charged in November 2025 with alleged assault by penetration of a minor. Despite what the group calls "glaring medical evidence," the suspect was granted bail in January 2026 while awaiting legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The organization further alleged attempts to obstruct justice, including reported pressure on the victim's family and an unauthorized second medical examination conducted on the minor. ACVPN described these actions as "secondary abuse" and called for the parents to be treated as hostile witnesses for allegedly failing to cooperate with court proceedings.
Community Intimidation and Broader Implications
Additionally, the petition referenced an ongoing case in the Ikotun area of Lagos, where a 44-year-old man is accused of defiling and impregnating his stepdaughter. ACVPN alleged that community leaders and other individuals attempted to intimidate the victim's family into withdrawing the case, using threats and inducements. The group warned that such developments could erode public trust in the justice system and embolden perpetrators of sexual violence against children if not urgently addressed. They emphasized that justice must not only be done but seen to be done in all cases involving vulnerable persons.
Call for Immediate Action and Accountability
In response to these allegations, ACVPN has urged the Attorney General to launch a comprehensive investigation into the conduct of the prosecutors involved, ensure accountability, and safeguard the integrity of ongoing cases. The group also called for immediate intervention to protect victims and witnesses from intimidation, stressing the need for a robust and transparent legal framework to address child abuse effectively. This appeal underscores the critical role of judicial oversight in protecting the rights and well-being of children in Lagos State.
