The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kwara State Command, apprehended a 51-year-old man, Idowu Mahmud, for reportedly raping his 14-year-old wife’s cousin. The incident, said to have occurred in November 2023 at Gbaagba area, off Airport Road in Ilorin West Local Government Area of the state, led to Mahmud’s arrest on Monday, February 19, 2024.
According to the NSCDC’s Public Relations Officer, Ayoola Michael, Mahmud was apprehended following a complaint filed by a witness at the Gender Unit of NSCDC. The victim, who has been residing with Mahmud and her sister since the age of 11, alleged that Mahmud had been sexually assaulting her since November 2023, particularly on Sundays when there were no other occupants at home. She also disclosed that Mahmud had threatened to harm her if she revealed the illicit relationship.
Upon interrogation, Mahmud confessed to the crime. Commandant Umar Mohammed expressed dismay over the rising cases of rape and defilement of minors, stressing the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. He urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and create an environment where children feel safe to discuss any issues they may face.