Apprentice Allegedly Rapes Girl At Knife-Point

A 17-year-old apprentice, Dayo Joseph, who allegedly raped a 17-year-old girl at knife-point was on Friday brought before an Ikeja Chief Magistrates’ Court in Lagos.

The accused, whose address was not provided, is facing a two-count of conspiracy and rape.

Police Prosecutor, Simeon Imhonwa, told the court that the accused committed the offences with three others still at large on Jan. 6 at about 10pm at No. 74 Oke-Erin St., Oworonshoki, Lagos.

Imhonwa said the accused accosted the girl while she was on her way home, took her to his friend’s house where he raped her.

“He brought out a dagger and threatened to stab her if she refused to cooperate with him.

“She was rescued by some neighbours, who heard her screams, while the accused was handed over to the police,” he said.

The offence contravened Section 261 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015 (Revised).

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Section 261 of the law stipulates three-year jail term for offenders.

The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The Chief Magistrate, Mrs B.O. Osunsanmi, granted the accused bail in the sum of N500, 000 with two sureties in like sum.

She said the sureties should be gainfully employed and should own a landed property within the court’s jurisdiction.

Osunsanmi said the sureties should show evidence of tax payment to Lagos State Government.

She adjourned the case until Nov. 20 for mention.