ILORIN, Nigeria — The Kwara State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, on Wednesday, August 30, 2023, paraded two suspects, Idowu Yahaya, 39, and John Balogun, 49, for allegedly sexually abusing two teenagers in separate incidents in Ilorin.
Yahaya, a private security guard in the Gaa Akanbi area, is accused of raping a 15-year-old girl in an office in the same area.
Balogun, a teacher in a private school, allegedly raped his 17-year-old step-daughter in the Osere area of Ilorin.
Mohammed Umar, the State Commandant of NSCDC, used the occasion to advise parents and guardians to remain vigilant about their children’s safety.
Vigilance Urged
Umar urged parents to cultivate a close relationship with their children to foster open communication.
He advised that children should be encouraged to share their concerns about strangers, friends, and close relatives who may pose a threat.
“Isolated areas should be avoided, and children should know a safe, well-traveled route to take to and from school,” Umar added, emphasizing the need for preventative measures.
Calls for Public Awareness
The cases have reignited calls for increased public awareness around the issue of sexual violence, particularly as it affects minors.
Advocates are urging schools, communities, and parents to be proactive in educating children about how to protect themselves and how to seek help if they are in danger.
The parade of the suspects is considered a part of a broader initiative to clamp down on crimes against women and children in the state.
Legal experts suggest that the suspects, if found guilty, could face significant jail terms under the stringent laws against rape and sexual abuse in Nigeria.
As the investigation continues, both suspects are expected to be charged accordingly, and the cases will be transferred to court for legal proceedings.
These developments serve as a grim reminder of the country’s ongoing challenges in tackling sexual abuse and violence against minors.
