Ogun court verdict strengthens faith in justice for GBV survivors – Adeleye

A former Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development in Ogun State, Adijat Adeleye, has commended the judiciary for its unwavering commitment to justice following the recent conviction and sentencing of an offender in a child sexual abuse case.

Recall that the State High Court sitting in Ijebu Ode sentenced one Emmanuel Obirija to life imprisonment for raping a minor.

The judgment delivered by Justice Catherine Ogunsanya found the perpetrator guilty of an offense bordering on unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor.

DAILY POST reports that the case was reported at the State Sexual Assault Referral Centre, SARC, Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Sagamu on 2nd of December, 2022.

Adeleye, in a statement on Saturday, described the judgment as a reassuring demonstration that the courts remain the ultimate sanctuary for victims seeking redress and a critical pillar in the protection of vulnerable members of society.

The All Progressives Congress, APC, Ifo/Ewekoro Federal Constituency candidate, stated that the judgment further strengthens the growing belief that survivors of Gender-Based Violence, GBV, and their families should never lose faith in the judicial process.

She also acknowledged and praised the complementary roles played by the State Sexual Assault Referral Centre, SARC, healthcare professionals, law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, social workers and child protection advocates.

Adeleye urged survivors of gender-based violence to always speak out to ensure perpetrators do not go scot-free.