Man remanded for alleged sexual assault of 5-year-old niece.

Man remanded for alleged sexual assault of 5-year-old niece

An Ikeja Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court on Thursday remanded a 40-year-old man, Emeka Ani at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre for alleged sexual assault of his five-year-old niece.

Ani was arraigned by the state government on a one-count charge of sexual assault.

He, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Justice Abiola Soladoye remanded him and adjourned the case until April 3, for commencement of trial.

The State Counsel, Ms Funmi Oladiran, told the court that the defendant allegedly committed the offence on Jan. 21, 2025 in Ijegun, Lagos.

Oladiran alleged that the defendant sexually assaulted the minor by penetrating her private part with his finger.

The prosecutor informed the court that eight witnesses have been listed to testify against the defendant.

She, thereafter, prayed the court for a trial date and to remand the defendant in the correctional facility, following his not guilty plea.

According to the prosecutor, the alleged offence contravenes Section 261 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State.

Mrs Rukayat Owolabi announced her appearance for defence when the case was called up.