By Opeyemi Otitoju
A 25-year old man, Ayodeji Awenebi , a former police officer, has been arraigned before an Akure Chief Magistrate’s Court over alleged defilement of a 6-year old girl.
The defendant, whose address was not given was brought to court on a one-count charge bordering on defilement.
The prosecutor, ASP Nelson Akintimehin, told the court that the defendant allegedly committed the offence on November 30, 2025, at Ode Community, Isingbo in Ondo State, within the court’s jurisdiction.
Akintimehin alleged that the defendant unlawfully defiled the minor without her consent.
According to the prosecutor, the offence contravenes Section 22 of the Criminal Code, Cap 37, Vol. 1, Laws of Ondo State of Nigeria, 2006.
The defendant, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Counsel to the defendant, A.O. Odidiomo, prayed the court for an adjournment on health grounds.
He further prayed the court to grant bail to the defendant on the most liberal terms, stating that though the allegation is serious, by virtue of Section 35, the defendant is presumed innocent until proven otherwise.
He added that the defendant would not be a flight risk and would not interfere with the investigation or witnesses in the case.
In his ruling, Chief Magistrate Sunday Adedapo, granted the defendant bail in the sum of ₦750,000 with one surety in like sum.
The court ordered that the surety must reside within the court’s jurisdiction and must own landed property in Akure.
The case was adjourned to April 30, for further hearing.