Edo govt orders arrest of 70-year-old man for allegedly raping 14-year-old girl

As part of moves to reduce child molestation, raping and defilement in the state, Edo State Government at the weekend ordered the arrest of a 70-year-old man, who allegedly raped a 14-year-old girl in the state.

Disclosing to newsmen at the weekend, the state Commissioner for Social Development and Gender Issues, Hon. (Mrs.) Maria Edeko said the investigation and order is part of efforts by the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration to ensure child molestation, rape and defilement are drastically reduced in the state.
The Commissioner said the 14-year-old girl is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital, noting that the girl’s health condition was getting stable.
“Governor Godwin Obaseki has said no child under his watch will be defiled, raped or molested. He is determined to ensure that the right of every girl-child in Edo State is protected. The issue of child defilement for Obaseki is a serious issue and culprits must be punished for their crimes. We are talking about the 14-year-old girl today. We will not turn a blind eye to such crime as offenders should be ready to go jail”, Edeko said.
The 70-year-old man, Mr. John Eseigbe, however, denied the allegation. He said the girl lives with his family but was sent packing after she stole from him, adding that the parents of the girl are friends to his family, hence he could not have jeopardised the long-standing relationship that exists between both families.