DELTA State Police Command has arrested a 32-year-old man, identified as Ezekiel Elijah, for allegedly defiling a 13-year-old physically challenged girl in Aviara, Community in Delta State.
The Delta State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Edafe Bright disclosed the arrest in posted, yesterday, via X, stating that the suspect allegedly lured the victim into his house, where he committed the offense.
“He deceived this girl, took her into his house, locked her inside, and sexually molested her,” Edafe said.
The police spokesperson stressed that the victim’s vulnerability made the case particularly disturbing, adding, “She’s someone that needs a guardian; someone that needs assistance.”
During questioning, Elijah claimed he was unaware of the victim’s age. However, SP Edafe clarified that ignorance does not constitute a valid defense.
“Whether she agrees or not is immaterial, she has not gotten to that age where she can decide for herself,” the police spokesperson said.
According to Elijah’s statement to the police, he initially called out to two individuals passing by, and the victim later returned alone. The suspect, who hails from Aviara Community, will be charged to court for defilement.
Edafe stressed that cases of defilement are treated with utmost seriousness under the law.
“The offence of defilement is a very clear one. Provided she’s not of an age where she can give consent; consent is immaterial and will be treated as defilement,” he stated.
