Police Arrest 74-Year-Old Man for Alleged Defilement of 13-Year-Old Girl in Lagos
A 74-year-old man, Aderinsola Addiths, has been arrested by the police in Lagos State for the alleged defilement of a 13-year-old girl in the Iju area. The incident, which occurred on March 12, 2025, was reported to the Iju Division on March 13, prompting swift action by law enforcement authorities.
Details of the Incident
According to a police signal message obtained by SaharaReporters, the victim’s father alerted the police after his daughter disclosed that she had been sexually assaulted by the suspect in his room. The young girl, visibly traumatized, recounted the harrowing experience to her family, leading to an immediate report to the authorities.
A team of detectives responded to the scene, conducting a preliminary investigation. The survivor was taken to a nearby hospital for a medical examination and necessary treatment, while the suspect was arrested and detained in police custody.
The police signal read: “ARREST OF SUSPECT FOR DEFILEMENT ON 13/03/25 AT ABOUT 1700 HOURS ONE XXX REPORTED AT IJU DIVISION THAT HIS DAUGHTER ‘F’ 13 YEARS OF THE SAME ADDRESS X REPORTED TO HIM THAT ONE ADERINSOLA ADDITHS ‘M’ 74 YEARS ALLEGEDLY DEFILED HER IN HIS ROOM ON 12/03/2025. BASED ON THE REPORT, A TEAM OF DETECTIVES VISITED THE SCENE. THE SURVIVOR WAS TAKEN TO THE HOSPITAL FOR EXAMINATION AND TREATMENT WHILE THE SUSPECT WAS IMMEDIATELY ARRESTED AND DETAINED IN POLICE CUSTODY. INVESTIGATION IN PROGRESS. PLS.”
Police Investigation
The Lagos State Police Command has confirmed that an investigation into the matter is ongoing. The suspect remains in custody as authorities work to gather evidence and build a case against him.
Implications and Public Reaction
The arrest has sparked outrage among residents of the Iju community and beyond, with many calling for swift justice for the victim. The case highlights the pervasive issue of sexual violence against minors in Nigeria and the urgent need for stronger measures to protect vulnerable children.
Child rights advocates have emphasized the importance of thorough investigations and prosecutions in such cases to deter potential offenders and ensure justice for survivors. They have also called for increased awareness and education on child protection to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Broader Context
Sexual violence against children remains a significant challenge in Nigeria, with many cases going unreported due to fear, stigma, or lack of trust in the justice system. The arrest of Aderinsola Addiths underscores the need for improved mechanisms to support survivors, hold perpetrators accountable, and address the root causes of such crimes.
Conclusion
The arrest of the 74-year-old suspect in Lagos State is a critical step in addressing the alleged defilement of a 13-year-old girl. As the investigation progresses, the case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance, prompt reporting, and robust legal action to combat sexual violence and protect the rights of children. The outcome of this case will be closely watched, with hopes that justice will be served and that it will contribute to broader efforts to safeguard vulnerable members of society.
