In a significant judicial decision, the Ikeja Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court sentenced Oladosu Sakiru, an Arabic teacher, to 21 years in prison for the attempted sexual assault of a 13-year-old female student. Justice Rahman Oshodi handed down the sentence after Sakiru pleaded guilty to the amended charges of attempted sexual assault by penetration and indecent treatment of a child.
Justice Oshodi, in his ruling, emphasized the breach of trust by Sakiru, highlighting the sacred responsibility that comes with being a religious leader and teacher. “You betrayed this trust in the most deplorable manner,” Oshodi stated, condemning the behavior as predatory, especially noting how Sakiru subjected the young survivor to inappropriate touching and attempted assault.
The judge further criticized Sakiru’s attempt to deflect responsibility, noting his claim that his actions were “the work of the devil.” Oshodi stressed the need for severe punishment to reflect society’s repudiation of such acts and to deter similar offenses by others in positions of trust.
Sakiru was sentenced to 14 years on the first count and 7 years on the second, with the terms to run consecutively. Additionally, his name will be added to the Lagos State Sexual Offences Register.
Defense counsel Nelson Onyejaka pleaded for leniency, citing Sakiru as a first-time offender with familial responsibilities. However, the prosecution, represented by Bukola Okeowo, pushed for a sentence that matched the severity of the crimes. The offenses occurred between February and March 2022 in Mushin, Lagos, and involved violations under Sections 135 and 262 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2015.
The case initially saw Sakiru pleading not guilty upon his first arraignment in March 2023. However, after compelling evidence from the survivor and her father, a plea bargain was arranged, leading to the conviction based on the amended charges. This sentencing underscores the judicial system’s commitment to protecting minors and punishing those who exploit their positions of authority to commit heinous acts against children.
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