Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Team (DSRVT) says it is considering the rape allegations in the case of Baba Ijesha.
The actor had admitted to molesting a 14-year-old girl.
Shortly after the Yoruba film star confession to the crime, the state’s commissioner of police, Hakeem Odumosu had pointed out that the actor’s offence remains bailable, unlike rape cases.
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Odumosu had, however, stated that Baba Ijesha was still in custody, where he would remain pending advice from the ministry of justice.
The commissioner said, “When a man touches a woman where he is not supposed to, without authority and consent, that is what is called sexual assault. That is exactly what is there. He admitted that he actually assaulted.”
But in a statement on Friday, the DSRVT disclosed it is now actively following up on the assault case.
The team also stated that a duplicate case file has also been sent to the Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP) for legal advice.
It added that allegations of sexual assault by penetration (rape), which it said carry a penalty of life imprisonment in Lagos, are being considered.
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DSRVT’s statement read “We are also in direct contact with the complainant with a view to providing the necessary support.”
“For avoidance of doubt, the following allegations are being considered:
“(1) Sexual Assault by Penetration S261 of the Criminal law of Lagos State, 2015 punishable by life imprisonment.
“(2) Attempted Sexual Assault by Penetration – S262 of the Criminal law, punishable by 14 years imprisonment.
“(3) Sexual Assault S 263 of the Criminal Law, punishable by 3 years imprisonment.
“(4) Indecent treatment of a childS135 of the Criminal Law punishable by 7 years imprisonment.”
”We have absolute confidence in the criminal justice system as well as social support structures in Lagos State in ensuring justice is served in this matter and, most importantly, the survivor receives the relevant support on her journey towards healing,” it added.
It reiterated the Lagos State Government’s position on zero tolerance to all forms of sexual and gender-based violence and its firm commitment in ensuring justice for survivors.
© ControlTV 2021.
