Evangelist docked for child defilement

An evangelist, identified as Benjamin Uzoma, has been docked at the Edo Family Court for allegedly defiling a 10-year old girl.

He was said to have committed the offence a day after he had a prayer session with the family.

Uzoma, who pleaded not guilty was arraigned on two count charges bothering on indecent assault and having carnal knowledge against the victim’s will.

He reportedly committed the offence at No 6 Oviawe Street, Aduwawa Quarters in Ikpoba Okha local government area of the state.

The prosecution said he has committed an offence punishable under Section 222 of the Criminal Code as he was alleged to have forcefully removed the pants of the victim, applied cream to her private parts and lay down on her against her will.

He was also alleged to have defiled his victim, an offence punishable under section 218 of the Criminal Code.

Presiding Magistrate, J.O Ejale, adjourned the case to July 18 for further hearing.

Meanwhile, an Evboriaria Magistrate Court has sentenced one Osamede Okhomina to 15 years imprisonment for breaking into people’s homes and stealing household items.

The convict was said to have committed the offence on January 18, 2017 at Israel Lawani street off Country Home Road in Bénin City.

He was said to have broken into the homes of Osuagwu Sonia and Janet Kayode where he stole television, shoes, laptops, belts, perfume, sunglasses and N50,000 cash.

Osamede was arraigned on five count charges bothering on stealing, conspiracy, break-in and entry and unlawful possession of firearms. He pleaded not guilty to all the charges and did not call any witnesses during trial.

Police Prosecutor, Inspector Olatoye Oluwaseun called Sergeant Oyenma Sunday who testified that Osamede committed the offenses.

Inspector Oluwaseun said the offences were punishable under sections 516, 411(2) 390(9) of the Criminal Code cap 48 vol II Laws of the defunct Bendel State as applicable in Edo State.

Presiding Magistrate, Mrs. C.E Oghuma found the accused guilty of four out of five count charges.

Oghuma sentenced Osamede to two years imprisonment on count one, six years on count two, four years on count four and three years on count five.

All the sentenced were without option of fine.