An Ikeja Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court has convicted and sentenced a 30-year-old barber, Rasaq Akinyemi, to nine years imprisonment for sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl. The judgment was delivered on Tuesday by Justice Rahman Oshodi, who emphasized the gravity of the offenses and the breach of trust committed by the convict.
The Conviction and Sentencing
Justice Oshodi handed down the jail term after Akinyemi pleaded guilty to the amended two-count charge of indecent treatment of a child and sexual assault. The judge noted that the offenses were severe and had caused significant harm to the young survivor, who had trusted Akinyemi as a family member.
Despite the seriousness of the crime, the court acknowledged that Akinyemi had shown genuine remorse for his actions. Justice Oshodi highlighted the convict’s efforts at rehabilitation during his time in custody, including learning the trade of barbing and pursuing his studies. Akinyemi also served as an imam in the Muslim society, demonstrating his attempt to reform and maintain a spiritual connection.
The judge stated, “You have explained while in custody that you have made commendable efforts to rehabilitate yourself. Your expression that you ‘do not want to be useless’ but rather ‘want to be useful’ to society shows insight into the need for personal transformation.”
However, Justice Oshodi also emphasized the aggravating factor of the convict’s position of trust as a relative to the victim. After carefully considering all factors, including the severity of the offences, the breach of trust, the guilty plea, and the steps taken towards rehabilitation, the court sentenced Akinyemi to seven years imprisonment on the first count and two years on the second count. The sentences are to run consecutively, totaling nine years, starting from June 26, 2020, when Akinyemi was first remanded in custody.
Additionally, the court ordered that Akinyemi’s name be registered in the sexual offences register of Lagos State, a measure aimed at tracking and monitoring individuals convicted of such crimes.
Background of the Case
Akinyemi was initially arraigned on November 27, 2021, on two counts of defilement and indecent treatment of a child, to which he pleaded not guilty. The prosecution, led by State Counsel Ms. Olufunmilayo Aluko, presented two witnesses during the trial: a medical officer and an investigative police officer. Through these witnesses, the prosecution tendered a confessional statement from the convict, which was not objected to by the defence.
The court heard that the offence occurred on June 25, 2020, at No. 13 Shiaba Street, Agege, Lagos. The convict was accused of indecently treating the teenager by removing her clothes and looking at her private parts.
On January 30, 2025, the prosecution informed the court that the parties had entered into a plea and sentence agreement dated and filed on January 28, 2025. Following this, Akinyemi was re-arraigned on the amended charge, to which he pleaded guilty.
Legal Implications and Public Reaction
The case has sparked widespread discussion about the prevalence of sexual offences against minors and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable. The conviction and sentencing of Akinyemi serve as a reminder of the legal consequences of such crimes, particularly when the offender is in a position of trust.
Legal experts have commended the court for its thorough consideration of the case, balancing the severity of the crime with the convict’s efforts at rehabilitation. However, some advocacy groups have called for stricter penalties for sexual offences, arguing that the current sentencing guidelines may not be sufficient to deter potential offenders.
The Role of Rehabilitation in the Justice System
Akinyemi’s case also highlights the role of rehabilitation in the justice system. While the court acknowledged his efforts to reform, it ultimately prioritized the need for justice for the victim and the protection of society. The inclusion of his name in the sexual offences register ensures that he will be monitored even after serving his sentence, reducing the risk of reoffending.
Conclusion
The sentencing of Rasaq Akinyemi to nine years imprisonment for sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl underscores the judiciary’s commitment to addressing sexual violence, particularly against minors. The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of such crimes and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable, regardless of their relationship to the victim.
As society continues to grapple with the issue of sexual violence, cases like this emphasize the need for comprehensive legal frameworks, robust support systems for survivors, and ongoing efforts to educate the public about the importance of protecting vulnerable members of the community.
