By Jude Atupulazi
It is all over for a perverse male teacher in Anambra State who faces 12 years in jail for defiling an 11-year old male student of JSS 1. A Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Court sitting in Awka, presided over by Justice Peace Otti, passed the verdict on the 34-year old school teacher.
The defendant, Pascal Ofomata, was charged with rape and inflicting physical harm punishable under Section 3(1) and 4(1), respectively, of the Violence against Persons Prohibition Law and the offence of Sexual Abuse punishable under Section 35(2) of the Child’s Right Law of Anambra State.
Ofomata, a teacher at St Christopher’s Junior Seminary, 3-3 Onitsha, pleaded not guilty to the three-count charge.
However, during the trial, the court evaluated evidence, including testimonies from the investigating police officer and the medical doctor who examined the victim.
Although he denied penetrating the boy, Ofomata admitted to acts amounting to sexual abuse, according to his police statement.
Delivering judgment, Justice Otti convicted the defendant and sentenced him to 12 years imprisonment.
The court also barred him from working in any institution involving minors, including primary, secondary, and tertiary schools.
Justice Otti commended the lead prosecutor, Chinelo Akorah, of the Anambra State Ministry of Justice, for her diligence and professionalism in handling the case.
‘The lead Prosecutor’s final address was compelling and comprehensive. It was rare for cases of sexual offences against boys to receive a conclusive end and justice served to offenders,’ Otti said.
Reacting to the development, the Anambra State Commissioner for Women’s and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo, expressed satisfaction, describing the Anambra State Justice System as one that delivered nothing short of justice.
‘This case is a rare push for justice for the boy-child and awareness that boys too can be victims of sexual violence,’ Obinabo stated.
