A Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Court sitting in Awka, Anambra State, has sentenced a 34-year-old teacher, Pascal Ofomata, to 12 years in prison for defiling his 11-year-old male student.
The verdict, delivered by Justice Peace Otti, marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s legal response to child sexual abuse, especially involving male victims.
According to Punch Metro, Ofomata, a staff member of St. Christopher’s Junior Seminary, 33 Onitsha, was arraigned on a three-count charge that included rape, physical assault, and sexual abuse. These offenses contravene Sections 3(1) and 4(1) of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law, and Section 35(2) of the Child’s Right Law of Anambra State.
Although the defendant pleaded not guilty and denied penetrating the child, he admitted during police interrogation that he had sucked the boy’s penis and instructed him to kiss him.
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The court considered medical evidence, witness testimonies, and the police investigation before convicting him.
Justice Otti also ruled that Ofomata be permanently barred from employment in any institution involving minors—including primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions.
Commending the lead prosecutor, Chinelo Akorah of the Anambra State Ministry of Justice, the judge stated: “Her compelling final address was rare and commendable, especially in cases of sexual violence against boys.”
State Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo, hailed the judgment as a significant stride for the boy-child and a reminder that males can also be victims of sexual abuse. “This verdict reinforces that the Anambra State justice system delivers justice regardless of gender,” she added.
The ruling sends a strong message about accountability and justice, and it underscores the growing demand for child protection and gender-balanced sexual violence legislation in Nigeria.
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