Crime

School Bus Driver Sentenced to Life Imprisonment for Defiling Three-Year-Old Girl

Written by Jerry Alomatu on July 9, 2024

News Views: 133

Michael Mowete, a school bus driver, has been sentenced to life imprisonment for defiling a three-year-old girl whose identity has been withheld. The judgment was handed down by Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Ikeja Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court, who ruled that the prosecution successfully proved the charge of defilement against Mowete.

During the trial, Justice Oshodi dismissed Mowete’s claim of having an amorous relationship with the victim’s mother, emphasizing that the evidence presented by the prosecution, including the minor’s testimony, her mother’s account, and medical evidence, substantiated the crime.

The court heard how the victim informed her mother about the incident, detailing how Mowete had touched her inappropriately. Medical examination further revealed signs of recent penetration, supporting the prosecution’s case.

Despite the defense’s attempts to challenge the credibility of the victim’s testimony, Justice Oshodi found Mowete guilty under Section 137 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State (2015). He ordered Mowete’s name to be registered in the Lagos State Sexual Offences Register and sentenced him to life imprisonment.

In delivering the sentence, Justice Oshodi condemned Mowete’s actions, highlighting the profound impact on the child and her family. He emphasized the severity of the crime and its lasting consequences, underscoring the need for justice and protection of vulnerable members of society.

The case was prosecuted by Mr. Babajide Boye, the State Lead Counsel, who presented witnesses and evidence supporting the prosecution’s case against Mowete.