This case revolves around a grave accusation of child abduction and rape against Chief Ifedayo, the traditional ruler (Baale) of Laagba village in Ondo East Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria. The alleged victim is a 12-year-old girl, the daughter of Mr. Ajayi Fulani, a security guard. Mr. Fulani has publicly appealed for justice, calling upon the state government, security agencies, and other relevant stakeholders to ensure a thorough investigation and prosecution of the accused.
The alleged crime came to light after the victim went missing from her home on Sunday, May 25, 2025. Her father, due to the nature of his work, was often away from home. Upon discovering his daughter’s absence, he embarked on a frantic search that lasted nearly a month. The search eventually yielded results when the victim’s sister received a phone call from her, revealing her location in Akure, the state capital. She was subsequently found near the Cathedral church in Akure, where she had reportedly been abandoned.
Following her discovery, the family immediately reported the matter to the police Area Command’s office in Akure. The police directed them to seek medical attention for the victim, who was initially taken to the General Hospital in Ondo. However, due to the nature of her condition, she was referred to the Mother and Child Hospital at the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital, Ondo, where she received treatment for six days. During this period, the victim confided in her father, confirming that the Baale had sexually assaulted her.
Mr. Fulani confronted the accused, who, according to the father, pleaded for leniency and offered to cover the medical expenses. However, Mr. Fulani rejected the offer, insisting on pursuing justice for his daughter. He has since made a public appeal, calling on the Ondo State Government and the Commissioner of Police to ensure a comprehensive investigation and subsequent prosecution of the Baale. He emphasizes that his family’s sole objective is to see justice served.
The Ondo State Police Command, through its Public Relations Officer, Mr. Olayinka Ayanlade, has confirmed the arrest of Chief Ifedayo. The case, initially handled at the local level, has been transferred to the state police headquarters to facilitate a more in-depth investigation. The PPRO has assured the public that the police are committed to a thorough investigation to ensure that justice is served in this sensitive case.
This incident has understandably caused significant distress to the victim and her family. The alleged abuse of power by a community leader, coupled with the vulnerability of the young victim, further amplifies the gravity of the situation. The public appeal by the victim’s father highlights the need for a swift and transparent investigation to uncover the truth and ensure accountability. The outcome of this case will undoubtedly have significant implications for the community and serve as a critical test of the justice system’s capacity to protect vulnerable individuals and hold perpetrators accountable, regardless of their social standing. The community and indeed the nation awaits the results of the police investigation and subsequent legal proceedings.
