Human Rights Group Petitions IGP Over Alleged Sexual Abuse of 5-Year-Old In Oyo

A human rights organisation, Ta’awunu Human Rights Initiative (THURIST), has petitioned the Inspector-General of Police and the Oyo State Commissioner of Police over the alleged rape and sexual abuse of a five-year-old girl by a man identified as Bayo, reportedly the son of a serving police officer.

The organisation, in a statement signed by its Director-General, S.A. Tadese, Esq., said the matter was reportedly being handled at the Area Command, Durbar, Oyo State.

THURIST, however, alleged that there were attempts to resolve the matter through a private settlement because of the reported relationship between the suspect and a serving police officer.

The group said an allegation involving a child of such a young age should not be treated as a private family dispute or resolved through financial settlement.

According to the organisation, the reported connection between the suspect and a serving police officer should not prevent law enforcement authorities from conducting a thorough investigation.

“The fact that the suspect is reportedly the son of a serving police officer must not confer upon him any immunity from investigation or prosecution,” the group said.

THURIST called for an independent, thorough and transparent investigation into the allegation, as well as immediate protection for the child and her family.

It also urged the authorities to preserve all relevant evidence, including medical and forensic records, and prosecute the suspect if investigations establish sufficient evidence of wrongdoing.

The organisation further called on the Police Service Commission to investigate any police officer found to have attempted to suppress the complaint, intimidate the victim’s family or interfere with the investigation.

While stressing that the suspect remains innocent until proven guilty by a competent court, THURIST said the best interest and protection of the child should remain central to the handling of the case.

The organisation added that if the suspect is found culpable following due investigation and trial, he should face the appropriate sanctions prescribed by law.

THURIST urged the police authorities to ensure that the investigation is conducted professionally and without interference, stressing that no individual should be above the law.