A child rights advocacy group, Advocates for Children and Vulnerable Persons Network (ACVPN), has expressed shock over the decision of Magistrate Court 2, Samuel Ilori Court, Ogba, Lagos, to grant bail to a man standing trial for the alleged sexual assault of a minor.
The group’s co-convener, Ebenezer Omejalile, said the suspect, Monsuru Karounwi, also known as Bobo Karo, was granted bail in the sum of N500,000 with two sureties, despite the seriousness of the charge of assault by penetration.
According to ACVPN, the development was disturbing, given what it described as “damning evidence”, including statements obtained from the victim at the Shogunle Police Station, Oshodi-Isolo, and the Gender Unit of the Lagos State Police Command, GRA, Ikeja.
The group added that a medical report from a Sexual Assault Referral Centre allegedly confirmed that the minor was sexually abused.
Omejalile questioned whether these materials were properly presented before the court, noting that the case was charged under Section 137 of the Lagos State Criminal Law by the police Gender Unit.
The advocacy group also raised concerns over the conduct of the defence, alleging that the suspect’s lawyer, said to be his biological brother, approached ACVPN representatives in court and attempted to persuade them to step down the case. The group said the request was declined.
ACVPN further alleged that the defence disclosed carrying out an unauthorised “virginity test” on the minor, describing the act as secondary abuse and possible contempt of court, as it was allegedly done without a court order.
“The question is who authorised another medical examination on the minor without the approval of the court,” he said.
The group also criticised the absence of the victim’s parents during several court sittings, alleging that their conduct amounted to obstruction of justice. ACVPN called on the state to consider treating them as hostile witnesses.
“It is rare for bail to be granted in cases of defilement or assault by penetration,” Omejalile said.
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