From Moshood Karim
The Edo State Government has vowed to ensure justice for 12-year-old Esther Friday, who was allegedly gang-raped by five men on Christmas Eve in Okpella, Etsako East Local Government Area.
The crime, which occurred on December 24, 2024, has caused outrage, with three of the accused currently in police custody.
The pledge for justice came from Mrs. Edesili Anani, the Administrator of the Office of the First Lady, who visited the victim at the Diasy Ehainere Danjuma Centre in Benin City on Friday.
In a statement released by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, Mrs. Anani condemned the brutal assault and reiterated the government’s commitment to prosecuting the perpetrators to the fullest extent of the law.
“We will leave no stone unturned to ensure the culprits face the full weight of the law,” Mrs. Anani said. “The Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law defines rape in Section 4 and clearly outlines the punishment for such heinous acts in Section 5. Edo State has zero tolerance for violence of any kind, and we are standing resolutely with the victim.”
The assault, which was reportedly filmed and circulated on social media by the attackers, has further strengthened the case against them. Mrs. Anani condemned the offenders for their actions, emphasizing that the video evidence would leave no room for denial.
“The video footage makes it impossible for anyone to hide this crime. The law will take its course, and these men will face justice,” she declared.
In addition to her strong condemnation of the crime, Mrs. Anani also praised the prompt intervention of the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella, His Royal Highness Lukeman Akemokue, and his wife, Blessing, who ensured the victim and her mother were safely relocated to Benin City for medical care and protection against threats.
“I commend the Royal Highness and his wife for their swift and courageous actions. They acted immediately to expose the crime and protect the victim. In cases like this, it’s crucial to speak out, for tomorrow it could be your own child,” Mrs. Anani remarked.
The traditional ruler of Okpella, His Royal Highness Akemokue, also expressed gratitude to Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo and the office of the First Lady for their proactive response. He reassured the public that the Okpella community remains committed to supporting the state’s efforts in ensuring justice for the victim.
At the Edo State Police Headquarters, where Mrs. Anani visited with Esther, Police Commissioner CP Umoru Ozigi praised the First Lady for her engagement and assured the public that the investigation was being handled with the utmost urgency. He confirmed that three suspects are currently in custody and that efforts are on-going to apprehend the remaining individuals involved.
“We are committed to ensuring that justice is served,” said Commissioner Ozigi. “The police are fully focused on bringing all those responsible to justice.”
As the investigation progresses, the Edo State Government has promised to continue its support for the victim and her family in their quest for justice.
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