By Chigozie Daniel
A storm of controversy has erupted in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, following a petition by the Safer Society for Children (SSC) Foundation and the Elegant Nurses Forum (ENF), demanding justice over the alleged gang rape of a young female student.
In the strongly worded petition dated March 22, 2026, the groups accused the Nigeria Police Force of failing in its primary duty to protect the victim, alleging further that officers compounded her ordeal through acts of misconduct.
Specifically, the petitioners claimed that personnel at the Igbeba Police Station breached confidentiality by disclosing the victim’s identity and residential details, thereby exposing her family to intimidation.
They further alleged that relatives of the suspects were allowed undue access, allegedly enabling attempts to pressure and induce the victim’s family into silence through threats and inducements.
Describing the incident as more than a criminal act, the groups characterised it as a case of “institutional betrayal,” warning that such alleged lapses could erode public trust in law enforcement.
The petition demanded the immediate investigation and prosecution of the four suspects identified as Kalu Prosper, Oche Destiny, Adamu Paul, and Adewusi Qudus, alongside any police personnel found culpable.
They also called for adequate protection for the victim and her family, as well as sustained transparency in the handling of the case, urging Nigerians to rally against sexual violence and corruption.
However, in a swift response, the Ogun State Police Command dismissed the allegations of misconduct, insisting that due process was strictly followed throughout the investigation.
The Command stated that the suspects had already been charged to court, with the matter now before the judiciary, underscoring that the legal process was actively underway.
According to the police, all critical procedures, including medical examinations, evidence gathering, and documentation, were conducted professionally, with the victim’s safety and dignity prioritised.
Nevertheless, the Commissioner of Police has ordered an internal review into the allegations raised, assuring that any proven breach of duty would be met with decisive disciplinary action.
While the Command urged the public to provide credible information to aid ongoing inquiries, it reaffirmed its commitment to justice, even as the unfolding developments continue to test public confidence in the system.