A 65-year-old man, Igwe Ambrose, has been sentenced to life imprisonment for defiling his tenant’s daughters, aged 7 and 11, at Shagari Estate, Ipaja, Lagos. The sentence was handed down by Justice Abiola Soladoye of the Ikeja Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court.
According to reports, Ambrose committed the heinous acts between January and June 2021. He allegedly inserted his fingers into the private parts of the young girls and touched their breasts under the pretense of helping them with their school homework.
During the trial, the prosecution presented evidence that clearly proved Ambrose’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The survivors, their mother, and the Investigating Police Officer (IPO) confirmed the assault and indecent treatment. Justice Soladoye referred to the defendant as a dirty old man and stated that his defense was lacking in merit.
The defendant’s conviction is based on the four-count charge brought against him by the Lagos state government, which consisted of sexual assault by penetration and indecent treatment of a child. In accordance with the verdict, Ambrose has been sentenced to double life imprisonment. He will serve life for counts one and two, and three years each for counts three and four.
In addition to the lengthy prison term, Justice Soladoye ordered that Ambrose’s name be entered into the Sexual Offences Register maintained by the Lagos State Government. This registry serves as a database to track individuals convicted of sexual offenses.
This landmark sentence sends a strong message that the Nigerian legal system takes crimes against children seriously and is committed to protecting their rights. It is hoped that this case will serve as a deterrent to other potential offenders and provide some measure of justice and closure for the young victims and their family.
Child abuse and sexual assault are grave offenses that have long-lasting effects on the victims. It is essential for society to prioritize the safety and well-being of children, offering support, awareness, and proper legal frameworks to address such heinous acts.
