On Friday, Mrs. Edesili Anani, the Administrator of the Office of the Edo State First Lady, assured justice for a 12-year-old girl who was reportedly gang-raped by five men on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2024.
The shocking incident occurred in Igiafodo Awuyemi, Okpella, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State. During her visit to the victim at the Diasy Ehanire Danjuma Centre, Anani emphasized that the perpetrators would be held accountable under the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law.
“The Edo State Government is committed to ensuring that these offenders face the full consequences of their actions. Section 4 of the VAPP Law defines rape, while Section 5 outlines the penalties for such crimes. Edo State has a zero-tolerance policy for violence, and we firmly stand with the victim,” she stated.
Anani condemned the suspects’ actions, particularly their decision to film the assault and share it on social media, highlighting that this evidence strengthens the case against them. “The video evidence makes it impossible to conceal this crime. The law will be applied rigorously, and these individuals will be adequately punished,” she added.
She also praised the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella, His Royal Highness Lukeman Akemokue, and his wife, Blessing, for their quick action in bringing the case to public attention. They ensured the victim and her mother were safely relocated to Benin City for medical care, responding to threats against their lives. “I want to commend your Highness for his exemplary response. It is vital to speak out in situations like this because it could happen to anyone,” she advised.
The Okuokpellagbe expressed gratitude to Edo State Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo and the office of the First Lady for their proactive assistance, reiterating the community’s continued support for the administration.
Anani also visited the Edo State Police Headquarters with the victim and other stakeholders, commending the police for their prompt response and urging that justice be served for the young girl.
In response, Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Umoru Ozigi, commended Anani for her visit and assured that the victim would receive justice. He revealed that three individuals are currently in custody in connection with the crime.
