The Kwara State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested a 51-year-old man, Idowu Mahmud, for allegedly raping his wife’s 14-year-old cousin on Gbaagba-Airport Road in Ilorin West Local Government Area of the state.

The command’s Public Relations Officer, Ayoola Michael, who disclosed this in a statement in Ilorin on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, said that a complainant reported the matter to the Gender Unit of the NSCDC.

According to the complainant, the suspect has been sexually assaulting the victim since November 2023.

“The victim, who is a cousin to the suspect’s wife, has been residing with the couple since the age of 11,” the statement read.

“Reporting the case at the command’s headquarters in Ilorin, the victim stated that the suspect has been sexually assaulting her since November 2023, particularly on Sundays when there are no other occupants at home.

“She also revealed that the suspect threatened to harm her if she ever disclosed the illicit act to anyone.

“Upon interrogation, the suspect confessed to the crime and will be charged in a court of competent jurisdiction to expedite justice.” 

Also speaking, the State Commandant, Umar J. G. Mohammed, expressed dismay over the alarming increase in cases of rape and defilement of minors, emphasizing that perpetrators of such heinous acts would face severe consequences for their actions.

Mohammed underscored the need for parents and guardians to be vigilant and ensure their children are always in close proximity.

Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of fostering an environment where children feel comfortable discussing any issue they may encounter, whether with a stranger, friend, or close relative.