November 25, 2025
An Ikeja Chief Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday ordered the remand of 34-year-old chef Promise Okala at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre over an alleged sexual assault involving his neighbour’s teenage daughter. Chief Magistrate M. F. Onamusi issued the remand order after the defendant declined to enter a plea, prompting the court to send him into custody pending formal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions.
The defendant, who resides at 15 Elebiju Street, Ketu, Lagos, is facing charges of sexual assault and penetration by finger. According to the prosecution, the incident occurred in September 2025 at the defendant’s residence.
Prosecuting counsel ASP Adegoke Ademigbuji told the court that the 14-year-old victim had entered the bathroom to urinate when the defendant allegedly followed her inside, locked the door, and proceeded to fondle her breast before penetrating her with his finger. Ademigbuji stated that the actions formed the basis of the alleged sexual assault, which the victim immediately reported, leading to the defendant’s arrest.
The offences violate Sections 261 and 263 of the Lagos State Criminal Law of 2015, which criminalise unlawful sexual contact and penetration involving minors. The prosecutor stressed that the incident demonstrated a clear abuse of trust within a residential environment, reinforcing the need for strict enforcement of existing statutory provisions.
The court thereafter adjourned the matter to December 18, allowing time for the DPP’s review and the continuation of proceedings. Legal observers note that cases involving minors are handled with heightened scrutiny, and the judiciary prioritises safeguarding young victims throughout the trial process.
The remand order underscores the court’s firm stance on cases of alleged sexual assault, particularly those involving children, while the legal system evaluates the evidence and prepares for further hearings.
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