The Ogun State Police Command has arrested a 38-year-old cleric for allegedly defiling a 12-year-old girl in Ijebu-Igbo. The suspect, who serves in a branch of the Cherubim and Seraphim Church, was apprehended following a report by the victim’s mother, a member of his congregation.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Omolola Odutola, the incident occurred on Sunday afternoon during what was described as a “spiritual cleansing” session. The suspect reportedly convinced the mother that her daughter needed a spiritual bath to avert a calamity. However, during the ritual at a riverbank, the cleric allegedly took advantage of the minor.
The mother reported the incident to the Ijebu-Igbo Divisional Police Station, prompting swift action by officers from the Gender Department of the Ogun State Police Command. The victim was subsequently taken to Medicare Hospital in Ijebu-Igbo for medical examination, with evidence being gathered to support the ongoing investigation.
CSP Odutola expressed concern over the level of neglect and lack of parental caution in the case, noting that the mother had entrusted her child to the suspect without proper scrutiny. She urged parents and guardians to exercise vigilance and protect their children from individuals who exploit religious beliefs for personal gain.
The suspect remains in custody as investigations continue. The police have reiterated their commitment to ensuring justice for the victim and holding perpetrators of such crimes accountable.
