Kogi state government, through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, has charged a 40-year-old man, Daniel Dankulubi Elisha, accused of sexually assaulting a 3-year-old girl before a Lokoja Magistrate Court.
The accused admitted to have committed the offense, even as the victim provided a detailed account of the assault, including the accused’s use of his private parts.
The Ministry’s Legal Adviser, Barrister Lamija Oluwabusayo, while ensuring that proper legal procedures were followed and the victim’s rights and welfare were protected, assured that the ministry would collaborate with the Police for detail investigation.
The Director of PRS Department in the ministry, Mr. Inah contacted the Office of the Public Defender and Citizens Rights (PDCRC) to secure legal representation for the accused during the statement-taking process.
The ministry disclosed that in ensuring transparency and accountability, the statement of the accused was video recorded, to protect the rights of both the accused and the victim, ensuring that no part of the investigation could be questioned later.
The statement of the accused was obtained in the presence of the lawyer provided by the Kogi State Office of the Public Defender and Citizens Rights (PDCRC). The lawyer played an important role in ensuring that the process was transparent and in the best interests of justice.
The ministry also revealed that the victim underwent a thorough medical examination at the Police Clinic to gather forensic evidence and establish the facts surrounding the case.
“This examination was crucial in gathering forensic evidence that could support the investigation and help establish the facts surrounding the case. The Ministry ensured that the medical process was handled delicately and with utmost care for the well-being of the child.”
The Ministry of Justice reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that justice is served in the case, while the Ministry of Women Affairs pledged to also ensure that appropriate support is given to the victim and her family throughout the prosecution process. This includes continued access to medical, psychological, and legal support as the case progresses.
