The Ogun State Government has withdrawn charges of defilement against Mr. Ashafa Samson Adelaja, proprietor of Perfect Life School in Igode-Remo, citing lack of evidence following a detailed investigation.
Mr. Adelaja, who had been remanded in custody since March, was released unconditionally on Thursday after the Ministry of Justice informed the Chief Magistrate in the Sagamu Magisterial District of its decision not to pursue prosecution.
Adelaja was accused of defiling a young female pupil at his school, sparking public outrage that led to his arrest and remand. However, according to a statement issued by the ministry, police investigations and medical examinations revealed that the allegations were unfounded.
The ministry explained that the child was first observed with vaginal bleeding at home in February, and her mother had initially agreed that the incident could not have occurred at school. A second episode in March, witnessed by the school headmistress—who is also Adelaja’s wife—prompted immediate medical attention and a later claim of molestation.
Medical tests conducted afterwards confirmed the child had not been sexually abused. “There were no bruises or injuries in or around the vaginal area, and the hymen was intact,” the statement said. “The bleeding was attributed to unrelated medical conditions.”
The Ministry of Justice stressed that the process of filing criminal charges is grounded in facts and evidence, not public sentiment. It also cautioned against mob justice, referencing a viral video that prematurely accused Adelaja, published personal information of police officers, and incited violence that led to the vandalisation of his school.
“These actions may appease some members of the public, but they do not represent justice,” the statement noted. “The case underscores the importance of due process and the need to protect the rights of the innocent.”
The ministry reiterated that justice must serve both the victim and the accused, and urged the public to allow legal processes to run their course without interference.
