The family of a 17-year-old girl, who was allegedly raped by a police officer at the Ogudu Area H Command, has accused the officer’s relatives of exerting pressure on them to drop the case. The victim’s relative, Anderson, disclosed these claims during a phone interview on Saturday.
The incident, which reportedly occurred when the teenager visited the station to report a stolen phone, has sparked outrage over the police’s handling of the case. Despite initial assurances from the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, that an investigation is underway, there have been conflicting reports about the status of the medical report and the investigation.
Fayoade stated that the police are awaiting the medical report, emphasizing its importance in the investigation. However, a spokesperson for the command had previously indicated that the report had already been received and that the investigation was ongoing.
The victim’s mother, Aramida Olupona, has expressed frustration with the police’s lack of transparency and delays. She criticized the police for their perceived inaction, questioning why the accused officer has not yet been formally charged.
Adding to the family’s distress, Anderson reported that Olupona has been facing considerable pressure from the officer’s relatives. They have reportedly visited her shop, pleading with her to drop the charges. The situation has forced Olupona’s son, who initially brought the incident to light on social media, to leave town for his safety.
“The officer and his colleague frequently visited the survivor’s mother’s shop. We were unaware of his intentions. The officer lives in the police barracks nearby, while the victim’s family operates a shop just outside,” Anderson said. He further noted that despite the pressure, Olupona has refused to abandon her shop.
The case has drawn significant public attention, with concerns growing over the handling of such sensitive matters within the police force. The family is calling for a transparent investigation and accountability for the accused officer, whose identity has yet to be officially disclosed by the police.
