In a landmark ruling, the Ekiti High Court in Ado-Ekiti sentenced 47-year-old Adeleye Akingbaso to life imprisonment for the rape and coercion of a 13-year-old girl.
The trial, which commenced in September 2022, was presided over by Justice Blessing Ajileye.
Justice Ajileye pronounced the verdict, stating, “The defendant is found guilty on both counts of rape and coercion and will face the consequences.” She emphasised the importance of this ruling as a deterrent to others who may consider similar heinous acts.
The charges carried significant weight, with life imprisonment for rape and a concurrent three-year term for coercion. During the trial, the prosecution, led by Taiwo Ajibulu, revealed that the crimes occurred in Ado-Ekiti in July 2022.
Akingbaso, known as ‘Prophet Adeleye’, was a close associate of the victim’s mother. He took advantage of her trust, sexually assaulting the minor and threatening her with curses if she disclosed the abuse. The prosecution’s case was supported by the testimony of the young girl, who bravely recounted the horrifying details of the assault and its aftermath.
The prosecution presented four witnesses, including the defendant’s statement and the victim’s medical report, providing compelling evidence of the crimes. The defence, represented by Mr Adelanke Akinrata, did not call any witnesses.
