Mrs. Adijat Adeleye, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, has pledged to ensure the prosecution of Temitope Adetanju, 25, who allegedly used firewood to burn the private part of a 12-year-old girl in Obada, Abeokuta, after accusing her of stealing biscuits and satchel Milo worth N150.
Adeleye made this known in a statement to the press on Friday, responding to a viral video of the young girl recounting how she sustained injuries on her body and private parts.
The victim, who hails from Ijoun in Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State, stated that she had been placed under the care of Mrs. Adetanju, a friend to her father’s younger sister.
Explaining further, she mentioned that her parents reside in Ijoun and her guardian decided to punish her by burning her private parts with firewood over the alleged theft of biscuits.
Adeleye, speaking on the matter, said, “I was informed of this incident on Thursday while on Hajj, but immediate action has been taken. I understand that the woman has been apprehended and the girl is receiving treatment at the health center in Obada. This act is barbaric and exceedingly wicked. I assure you that the perpetrator will face the full weight of the law.”
“The welfare and wellbeing of every child in Ogun State is our topmost priority, as stipulated by the Child Rights Law, and the Governor is fully committed to this cause. Our team will be present at the court today where the suspect is expected to be arraigned.”
The Ogun State Police Command spokesperson, Omolola Odutola, confirmed the incident, stating, “On June 13th, 2024, Temitope Adetanju, a 25-year-old woman, was arrested by the DPO of Obada Oko in Ogun State for inserting a sizable piece of firewood into the private part of a 12-year-old girl for allegedly stealing a biscuit worth N200, Milo worth N150, and fruits worth N300.”
