The Edo State Police Command has apprehended three individuals in relation to the alleged gang-rape of a 12-year-old girl, identified as Miss Esther, in Okpella, located in the Etsako East Local Government Area of the state.
Commissioner of Police Umoru Ozigi made the announcement during a meeting in Benin City with Mrs. Edesili Anani, the Administrator of the Office of the Edo State First Lady. He emphasized the commitment of the police to ensure that justice is served for the victim, stating that the suspects are currently held in custody.
Mrs. Anani expressed her gratitude to the police for their swift response to the incident and stressed the importance of achieving justice for the young girl. Reports indicate that the alleged assault occurred on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2024, at Igiafodo Awuyemi in Okpella, where five men are said to have participated in the crime.
Following her visit to the victim at the Daisy Ehanire Danjuma Centre, Anani vowed that the Edo State Government would pursue all legal avenues to hold the perpetrators accountable. “Edo State has zero tolerance for any form of violence, and we are standing firmly with the victim,” she declared.
Anani condemned the accused for reportedly recording the assault and disseminating the footage on social media, which she noted could serve as crucial evidence in the case. “The video footage makes it impossible for anyone to cover up this crime. The law will take its course, and these individuals will be dealt with decisively,” she asserted.
Additionally, Anani praised His Royal Highness, Lukeman Akemokue, the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella, and his wife, Blessing, for their prompt actions in addressing the situation. They ensured that the victim and her mother were relocated to Benin City for their safety and necessary medical care following threats against their lives.
“I really want to commend your Highness. He did a fantastic job with his wife. It happened in his community, Okpella Kingdom; they didn’t hide it. Immediately he saw the videos; he took it up,” she remarked.
Anani encouraged community members to speak out against such atrocities, highlighting that silence could lead to further victimization.
In response, Okuokpellagbe Akemokue acknowledged the proactive measures taken by the Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, and the Office of the First Lady. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Okpella community to support the administration in its efforts to combat violence and protect the vulnerable.
