The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development in Ogun State, Mrs. Adijat Adeleye, has assured that Temitope Adetanju, a 25-year-old woman accused of burning the private parts of a 12-year-old girl with firewood, will face appropriate legal action.
Mrs. Adeleye made this commitment while addressing reporters on Friday in response to a viral video that circulated on WhatsApp platforms showing the young girl explaining how she sustained injuries to her body and private parts.
According to the victim, who hails from Ijoun in Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State, she had been living with Mrs. Adetanju, who is a friend of her father’s younger sister. The girl narrated that her guardian resorted to burning her private parts with firewood as punishment for allegedly stealing biscuits and a sachet of Milo worth N150.
“The case came to my attention yesterday while I was on Hajj, but immediate action has been taken. I understand that the woman has been arrested and the girl has received medical attention at the health center in Obada,” Mrs. Adeleye stated.
Expressing outrage over the incident, Mrs. Adeleye emphasized, “This act is barbaric and utterly wicked. I assure you that the perpetrator will face the full weight of the law. Safeguarding the welfare of all children in Ogun State is our top priority under the Child Rights Law, and the Governor is fully committed to this cause.”
She further noted, “My team will be present at the court today for the arraignment of the suspect.”
Confirming the arrest, the spokesperson for the Ogun State Police Command, Omolola Odutola, provided additional details. “On 13th June 2024, Temitope Adetanju, aged 25, was apprehended by the DPO of Obada Oko Police Station for allegedly inserting a sizable piece of firewood into the private parts of a 12-year-old girl,” Odutola stated.
The Ogun State Police Command assured the public that investigations are ongoing, underscoring their commitment to ensuring justice in the case.
