- The Ondo Court confirmed Dare Ojo raped and murdered 11-year-old Zainab after a five-year trial.
- Evidence showed Ojo was the last person seen with the girl before her body was found.
- Autopsy reports revealed violent assault, strengthening the rape and murder case.
- Justice Fasanmi issued life imprisonment for rape and death by hanging for murder.
A High Court sitting in Akure has sentenced Dare Ojo to death after finding him responsible for the rape and murder of 11-year-old Zainab Adeyemo. The judgement, delivered by Justice Yemi Fasanmi, followed years of intense hearings, witness testimonies and forensic examinations.
Ojo’s trial began after he was accused of attacking the young girl on July 17, 2020, along the Irun/Ese-Akoko Road in Ondo State. The court heard that he had taken Zainab on his motorcycle from Ise Market, but never delivered her to her destination. She was later discovered lifeless in a nearby bush, sparking outrage across the community.
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During the trial, the prosecution called six witnesses and tendered reports that detailed the brutality of the attack. The autopsy showed clear signs of forceful sexual assault and strangulation. According to the court, Ojo offered no convincing explanation for how the girl died, despite being the last person seen with her.
His lawyer pleaded for mercy, describing the convict as remorseful and well-behaved since being remanded. But Justice Fasanmi rejected the plea, insisting that the nature of the crime demanded a firm response. According to him, the young victim was robbed of her dignity, and the law must speak firmly against such acts.
The judge ruled that Ojo would serve life imprisonment for rape and face death by hanging for murder. The ruling aligns with the Ondo State Child’s Rights Law and the state’s Criminal Code.
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Reacting to the judgement, the Executive Secretary of the Ondo State Agency Against Gender-Based Violence, Barrister Bola Afolabi, welcomed the decision. She described the verdict as a relief for the victim’s family and a strong message that violence against minors will not go unpunished. She recalled that although the case was filed in 2020, amendments in 2023 strengthened the prosecution and ensured justice was served.
According to her, “The victim may not be here to witness this judgement, but justice has been done. Everyone who fights for survivors and vulnerable children can take comfort in today’s outcome.”
