Delta Court Hands Down 12-Year Sentence for Child Rape Case
A Delta State High Court sitting in Abraka, within the Ethiope-East Local Government Area, has delivered a significant judgment in a disturbing child sexual assault case. The court sentenced 41-year-old Ernest Okporu to twelve years imprisonment for the brutal rape of his landlord's 11-year-old daughter.
Details of the Heinous Crime
The incident occurred in March 2024 within the Osubi community, located in Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State. According to reports, Okporu lured the young victim by asking her to retrieve his charger from his apartment. Once inside, he followed her, grabbed her from behind, tied her hands, and proceeded to violently defile the minor.
Judicial Proceedings and Sentencing
Justice S.I Okeleke presided over the case and handed down the sentence on Thursday, February 5, 2026. The judgment represents a firm stance against sexual violence, particularly crimes targeting vulnerable children. The court operated under the provisions of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act (VAPP Law) of Delta State, which provides legal framework for prosecuting such offenses.
Human Rights Activist Confirms Outcome
Kelvin Ejumudo, a prominent human rights activist who serves as Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Human Rights, confirmed the sentencing through a Facebook post on Friday. Ejumudo, who also acts as National Secretary of the Human Rights Protection Congress (HRPC), handled the case and provided updates on the proceedings.
In his statement, Ejumudo expressed that "justice at last" had been served for the 11-year-old girl. He described the court's decision as "a breath of fresh air" and commended the judicial process for upholding the rule of law. The activist revealed that the young victim remains traumatized whenever she recalls the horrific incident.
Recognition for Legal Representation
Ejumudo extended special appreciation to the legal team that ensured proper representation throughout the case. He specifically mentioned the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice and Attorney General, Omamuzo Erebe, SAN, for providing quality legal services through the Delta State Ministry of Justice. The state counsel received commendation for their diligent work during the court proceedings.
Governor's Stance on Sexual Violence
The human rights activist also acknowledged Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for maintaining a zero-tolerance policy toward rape, defilement, and related offenses. This administrative position supports the legal framework that enabled the successful prosecution of this case.
Future Deterrent Measures
As part of the consequences following conviction, Okporu's picture will be posted on the Delta State website dedicated to rape offenders. This public registry serves as a deterrent to potential perpetrators and increases transparency regarding sexual violence convictions within the state.
The case highlights the ongoing efforts within Delta State to combat sexual violence against minors and demonstrates the judicial system's commitment to delivering justice for victims of such traumatic crimes.
