21-Year-Old Man Remanded for Alleged Attempted Rape of 70-Year-Old Woman in Ondo State
A 21-year-old man, identified as Okiki Dayo Owoyemi, has been remanded at the Olokuta Correctional Centre in Ondo State, following charges related to an alleged burglary and attempted rape of a septuagenarian woman. The case was brought before an Akure Chief Magistrate's Court, where the defendant faced serious accusations that have sparked public concern.
Court Proceedings and Charges
The defendant was arraigned on a one-count charge of rape by the Ondo State Police Command. According to the police prosecutor, Suleiman Adebayo, the alleged offence occurred at approximately 12:39 a.m. at Peace Onimalu, Ijoka, in Akure. Adebayo detailed that Owoyemi purportedly broke into the residence of a 70-year-old woman named Victoria Ebenezer, with the intent to commit rape.
The prosecution emphasized that this act contravenes Section 359 of the Criminal Code, Cap 37, Volume 1, Laws of Ondo State of Nigeria, 2006, which addresses sexual offences and carries severe penalties. During the court session, Owoyemi pleaded not guilty to the charge, maintaining his innocence in the face of the allegations.
Bail Application and Remand
In response to the charges, the defendant's counsel, G. O. Bernard, urged the court to grant bail to his client. Bernard assured the court that credible sureties would be provided to ensure Owoyemi's appearance at future hearings. After considering the arguments, the presiding magistrate, Damilola Sekoni, granted bail in the sum of N500,000, with a requirement for two sureties in like sum.
However, despite the bail grant, Owoyemi was unable to meet the stipulated conditions. Consequently, he was remanded at the Olokuta Correctional Centre pending further legal proceedings. This development highlights the challenges defendants often face in securing release, even when bail is approved.
Case Adjournment and Legal Implications
The case has been adjourned to February 20, 2026, for hearing, indicating a lengthy legal process ahead. This adjournment allows time for both the prosecution and defense to prepare their cases thoroughly. The incident underscores ongoing issues related to:
- Crime and public safety in residential areas of Akure.
- The judicial handling of sexual offence cases in Nigeria.
- Community concerns over the protection of vulnerable populations, such as the elderly.
As the case progresses, it will be closely watched by legal experts and the public, given its sensitive nature and the severe charges involved. The outcome could have implications for how similar cases are prosecuted in Ondo State and beyond.
